The Autumnal Equinox, known as the September Equinox in the Northern Hemisphere happens on the day in which the sun crosses the celestial equator.

An event that happens anywhere from September 22nd to September 24th every year. For those living in the Southern Hemisphere, this event is called the Spring Equinox because of the juxtaposition of seasons between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

 

It is a day which marks the end of summer and the beginning of the fall season in the Northern Hemisphere. As a result, it was often an important holiday for agriculturally based communities and was usually celebrated with some form of fall festival.

 

In Japan, The Autumnal Equinox is a national holiday. During both this day and the Spring Equinox, various Buddhist sects celebrate Ohigan. Buddhists from all around the country use the day to pay respect to their ancestors.

For many Wiccans, this day is called Mabon. This is often done with apple harvest rites or by holding a gratitude ritual. It is also a time of the year. Many Wiccans, as well as other pagans, use this time of the year to give to those who are less fortunate or to donate to a food drive.

 

Many people across the world like to give thanks for the harvest, fruit or sunlight

Thanksgiving, the Moon Festival, Higan, Sukkot, and many other fall festivals also hit upon themes of light, darkness, change, plenty, gratitude, and community.

The Harvest equinox is a point in time we can reflect upon the changing seasons and draw upon thoughts and thinking to celebrate the mazing planet we live upon. We need to help children and respect mother Earth and understand how incredible it is. 

The native proverb says "

“We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors—we borrow it from our children.'

Therefore it is our job as adults to ensure we respect our planet and pass on this precious gift to our children!

 

Perhaps your child's Early Years setting is organising a Harvest collection and asking parents and carers to bring in non-perishable items to donate to the local food bank or charity.  If not, maybe you could encourage your child to start a box and ask friends, family members or relatives to donate. This would be a wonderful way to talk about the wonderful food that is harvested. Where items grow and how they get from field to store.

Read some books about The Harvest moon - see our book section for more inspiration and ideas.