The First Day of Fall 2024: Everything to Know About the Autumn Equinox
Discover the science, traditions, and seasonal shifts that make the autumn equinox a special start to fall.
shinta 
Shinta is a biotechnologist turned writer. She holds a master's degree in Biotechnology from Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences and a PG Diploma in cellular and molecular diagnostics from Manipal University. Shinta realised her love for content while working as an editor for a scientific journal.
Read full bio of Shinta
The First Day of Fall 2024: A Deep Dive Into the Autumn Equinox
Every year, the arrival of fall is marked by a celestial event that signals shorter days and longer nights, vibrant leaves, and the cozy pleasures of autumn. In 2024, the first day of fall lands on Sunday, September 22, coinciding with the autumn equinox in the Northern Hemisphere. This article explores what the autumn equinox is, its astronomical significance, how it differs from solstices, what it means for our daily lives, and the beloved traditions, like the Harvest Moon, that come with this seasonal pivot.
What Is the Autumn Equinox?
The autumn equinox marks the beginning of the fall season. On this day, daylight and nighttime reach nearly equal duration because the sun is positioned directly above Earth’s equator. The term “equinox” derives from the Latin words for “equal night,” reflecting this balance of light and darkness. After the equinox, nights start to outpace days, gradually lengthening as we approach the winter solstice in December.
For those living in the Northern Hemisphere, the autumn equinox typically falls in late September. In the Southern Hemisphere, the event occurs in March, and the roles are reversed—the March equinox brings autumn, while the September equinox welcomes spring.
Seasonal Shift: Why Does It Happen?
- Earth’s axial tilt is the root cause of seasons.
- During the equinox, the tilt positions Earth so that the sun’s rays shine directly on the equator.
- This alignment occurs at a precise moment, marking either the beginning of spring (vernal equinox) or fall (autumnal equinox), depending on hemisphere.
The Astronomical Meaning of the Equinox
On the precise day of the autumn equinox, the sun rises exactly in the east and sets exactly in the west for most locations. This only happens twice a year: during the vernal (spring) and autumnal (fall) equinoxes. The phenomenon is a result of our planet’s orbit around the sun and its axial tilt of approximately 23.5 degrees.
The equinox is a fleeting instant, not an entire day. In 2024, the autumn equinox will occur on September 22 at approximately 8:43 a.m. Eastern Time.
Equinox vs. Solstice: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Equinox | Solstice |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | The sun is directly over the equator; day and night are nearly equal | The sun’s path is farthest from the equator (north or south); longest and shortest days of the year |
| Annual Frequency | Twice (spring and fall) | Twice (summer and winter) |
| Season It Marks | Beginning of spring or fall | Beginning of summer or winter |
| Solar Position | Aligned with Earth’s equator | Maximum north or south of equator |
While both are significant astronomical milestones, the equinox represents balance, whereas the solstices highlight extremes in day or night length.
How Is the Autumn Equinox Related to the Harvest Moon?
Each autumn, the full moon closest to the equinox is called the Harvest Moon. This lunar event is special for its timing: Unlike most months, when the moon rises about 50 minutes later each evening, the Harvest Moon rises soon after sunset for several consecutive nights. This phenomenon provided essential extra light for farmers harvesting their crops before the onset of frost and darkness in pre-electricity eras.
- The Harvest Moon can occur in either September or October, depending on which full moon falls closest to the equinox.
- In 2024, the Harvest Moon will light up the sky on September 17, just days before the official start of fall.
This synchrony between the autumn equinox and the lunar calendar makes the Harvest Moon an iconic marker of the season that’s celebrated in folklore, art, and agricultural customs alike.
Daylight Shifts and Preparing for the Season Ahead
After the autumn equinox, those in the Northern Hemisphere experience shorter days and longer nights. The sun’s daily arc continues to sink lower in the sky, and the pace of earlier sunrises and later sunsets quickens. This transition period is marked by:
- Cooler temperatures and crisp air
- Vivid foliage as trees prepare for winter
- Annual traditions like apple picking, pumpkin harvesting, and leaf-peeping
The last day of fall is December 20, and the winter solstice—the year’s shortest day and official start of winter—arrives on December 21.
Traditions, Folklore, and Festivities of the Autumn Equinox
Across cultures, the autumn equinox is associated with harvest festivals, gratitude, and preparation for the colder months. Some notable traditions include:
- Harvest Festivals: Rooted in agricultural societies, these celebrate the gathering of crops and the abundance of the season.
- Mid-Autumn Festival (Asia): Particularly in China and Vietnam, families gather to admire the moon and eat mooncakes under lantern-lit skies.
- Mabon (Pagan/Neo-Pagan): A modern take on the ancient harvest festival, involving thankfulness and offerings.
- Thanksgiving Celebrations: In Canada, Thanksgiving falls in early October, aligning closely with the equinox.
The season also prompts many to engage in both outward festivities and inward reflection. As we spend more time indoors, fall is considered an opportunity to slow down, declutter, and prepare for winter’s introspective quiet.
The Psychological and Lifestyle Impact of Autumn
Autumn is seen as a time to reset routines and rethink goals. Experts note that, after the activity of summer, autumn’s cooler, quieter months are perfect for inward reflection and practical life changes. Some ways people take advantage of this seasonal fresh start include:
- Reevaluating routines and habits
- Planning home organization projects
- Setting intentions for exercise or personal growth
- Reconnecting with friends or family
- Making time for self-care and kindness
As daylight shortens, it’s also a good time to address any feelings of seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and prioritize mental well-being.
Resetting Clocks and Embracing the Change
The end of Daylight Saving Time (DST) usually follows shortly after the autumn equinox in many places (though exact dates vary by country). In 2024, clocks in the U.S. “fall back” on November 3. This shift can be a cue to reset your daily schedule and routines:
- Use the extra hour to review finances or start holiday planning
- Update meal and exercise plans for the colder months
- Batch-cook and freeze seasonal dishes
- Declutter spaces for a more peaceful winter environment
- Reach out to loved ones or try something new to stay engaged
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Autumn Equinox
What exactly is the autumn equinox?
The autumn equinox is the moment when the sun crosses the celestial equator going southward, resulting in almost equal hours of day and night. It marks the official start of fall in the Northern Hemisphere.
Why does the date of the equinox change slightly each year?
The timing of the equinox is determined by Earth’s orbit around the sun and doesn’t exactly match our 365-day calendar year. This causes the date of the equinox to shift between September 21 and 24.
How do people traditionally celebrate the autumn equinox?
Common traditions include feasting at harvest festivals, participating in cultural celebrations like the Mid-Autumn Festival, and practicing gratitude. Many people also use this time for introspection and resetting their personal routines.
When is the next autumn equinox after 2024?
The next autumn equinox will occur on Monday, September 22, 2025, at 2:19 p.m. EDT.
What is the scientific significance of the equinox?
Scientifically, the equinox illustrates Earth’s journey around the sun and its axial tilt. It is one of two times a year when the sun’s rays strike the equator directly, giving balanced day and night across most of the planet.
Key Takeaways and Planning for Fall 2024
- September 22, 2024: The first day of fall and the autumnal equinox in the Northern Hemisphere.
- What to expect: Nighttime grows longer, temperatures drop, and nature’s palette brightens with color.
- Traditions: Enjoy harvest festivals, reconnect with family, and embrace seasonal reflection.
- Don’t miss the Harvest Moon: Look up on September 17 for a brilliant, near-sunset full moon.
- Prepare for the reset: Use the equinox as inspiration to tidy up, plan ahead, and savor the slowing pace of autumn.
Final Thoughts
The autumn equinox is more than just the first day of fall. It’s a turning point in the calendar, a moment of cosmic equilibrium, and a prompt to celebrate the season’s gifts—inside and out. As nature transitions and nights grow longer, take time to reflect, refresh your routines, and enjoy the beauty and meaning of autumn’s arrival.
References
- https://www.countryliving.com/life/travel/a28661720/first-day-of-fall-equinox/
- https://www.countryliving.com/uk/wellbeing/a41493514/autumn-reset-revaluate-life/
- https://www.fox29.com/news/1st-day-fall-2024-what-is-autumnal-equinox-when-is-it
- https://www.almanac.com/content/first-day-fall-autumnal-equinox
- https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/86463/autumn-equinox-happens-september-22
Read full bio of Shinta
Community Experiences
Join the conversation and become a part of our empowering community! Share your stories, experiences, and insights to connect with other beauty, lifestyle, and health enthusiasts.