Fall Equinox
The Autumnal Equinox marks the astronomical beginning of fall. Day and night are nearly equal in length as the sun crosses the celestial equator moving southward.
Next Fall Equinox
2026
Wednesday, September 23, 2026
UTC: 12:05 AM UTC
Your Local Time: 12:05 AM UTC
Fall Equinox Dates (2025-2030)
| Year | Date | UTC Time |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | Monday, September 22 | 6:19 PM |
| 2026 | Wednesday, September 23 | 12:05 AM |
| 2027 | Thursday, September 23 | 6:02 AM |
| 2028 | Friday, September 22 | 11:45 AM |
| 2029 | Saturday, September 22 | 5:38 PM |
| 2030 | Sunday, September 22 | 11:27 PM |
About the Fall Equinox
What is the Fall Equinox?
The Fall Equinox, also known as the Autumnal Equinox, marks the moment when the sun crosses the celestial equator moving from north to south. This astronomical event signals the beginning of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere.
During the equinox, day and night are approximately equal in length everywhere on Earth. The word "equinox" comes from Latin words "equi" (equal) and "nox" (night).
After the Fall Equinox, days continue to grow shorter in the Northern Hemisphere until the Winter Solstice in December, while the Southern Hemisphere experiences spring and longer days.
🍁 Fall Characteristics
- • Cooling temperatures
- • Leaves changing colors
- • Shorter days
- • Harvest season
- • Birds migrate south
- • Preparation for winter
- • Crisp autumn air
🔬 Scientific Facts
- • Sun is directly above equator
- • ~12 hours of daylight
- • Occurs around Sept 22-23
- • Exact time varies yearly
- • Opposite in Southern Hemisphere
- • Caused by Earth's tilt (23.5°)
Cultural Significance
Harvest Festivals: Many cultures celebrate the Fall Equinox as a time of harvest and thanksgiving. It marks the completion of the growing season and preparation for winter.
Mid-Autumn Festival: In East Asia, the Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated near the Fall Equinox with mooncakes, lanterns, and family gatherings.
Mabon: In Pagan and Wiccan traditions, Mabon is celebrated on the Fall Equinox as a time of balance and gratitude for the harvest.
Disclaimer: All times provided are based on astronomical calculations and are provided as-is for informational purposes. Exact times may vary slightly based on location and calculation method.