Autumn Equinox

The Autumnal Equinox in September ushers in a change of season. It is observed annually when the sun can be seen directly overhead along the equator. The day marks the end of summer and beginning of fall in the Northern Hemisphere.

The autumn equinox is one of two days when all points on Earth except the polar regions see the sunrise and set at due east and due west. With few exceptions, all latitudes see almost precisely 12 hours of daylight and 12 of darkness.

While the United States marks the official end of summer at Labor Day, the seasons mark time differently. Depending on where we live, the trees and animals behave differently based on the amount of sunlight they receive. By the time the equinox arrives in September, the leaves in many parts of the country have already begun to change. The air at night is crisper.

People’s minds begin to think about warmer clothes and preparing their homes for winter. Since children are already in school, most summer activities have ended. In the fields, farmers eagerly watch for the opportune time to harvest. Apples, pumpkins, and root vegetables ripen in the orchards and gardens. On cool evenings, long walks along the trails under the canopies of gold, umber, violet and crimson keep us warm.

HOW TO OBSERVE #Autumnal Equinox

Enjoy a long walk. Sip some tea or watch the sunset. Autumn has arrived. Use #AutumnalEquinox to post on social media.

Educators, visit the National Day Calendar Classroom for projects designed for the Equinox.