First Day Of Fall 2024: Everything To Know
As the summer heat begins to wane, the arrival of fall brings a refreshing change in the air. The first day of fall in 2024 is Sunday, September 22. This day, known as the autumnal equinox, marks the official start of the autumn season in the Northern Hemisphere. Here’s everything you need to know about this special day and what it signifies.
What is the Autumnal Equinox?
The autumnal equinox occurs when the sun crosses the celestial equator, moving southward. On this day, day and night are nearly equal in length, each lasting about 12 hours. The term “equinox” comes from the Latin words “aequus” (equal) and “nox” (night), highlighting the balance between daylight and darkness.
Seasonal Changes
The autumnal equinox signals the beginning of fall, a season characterized by cooler temperatures, changing foliage, and shorter days. After the equinox, the days gradually become shorter, and the nights longer, until the winter solstice in December. This shift in daylight is due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis, which causes different parts of the Earth to receive varying amounts of sunlight throughout the year.
The Harvest Moon
One of the most enchanting aspects of the fall season is the Harvest Moon. This is the full moon that occurs closest to the autumnal equinox. In 2024, the Harvest Moon will rise around sunset for several consecutive nights, providing extra light for farmers to complete their harvests. The Harvest Moon is known for its bright, golden hue and its significant role in agricultural traditions.
Historical Names and Traditions
Before the 16th century, the season we now call fall was referred to as “harvest” in England, reflecting the time of year when crops were gathered. The term “autumn” comes from the French word “autompne” and the Latin word “autumnus.” In the United States, the term “fall” became popular, derived from the phrase “fall of the leaf,” describing the shedding of leaves from deciduous trees.
Celebrating the First Day of Fall
The first day of fall is celebrated in various ways around the world. In many cultures, it is a time to give thanks for the harvest and prepare for the colder months ahead. Here are some popular ways to celebrate the arrival of autumn:
- Harvest Festivals: Many communities hold festivals to celebrate the bounty of the harvest, featuring local produce, crafts, and traditional foods.
- Nature Walks: Enjoying a walk in the crisp autumn air and observing the changing colors of the leaves is a favorite fall activity.
- Seasonal Foods: Fall is the perfect time to enjoy seasonal foods like apples, pumpkins, and squash. Many people look forward to baking pies, making soups, and savoring warm beverages.
- Decorations: Decorating homes with autumn-themed items such as pumpkins, gourds, and colorful leaves helps to bring the spirit of the season indoors.
Fun Facts About Fall
- Equinox Balance: While day and night are nearly equal on the equinox, they are not exactly the same length. The slight difference is due to the Earth’s atmosphere bending sunlight.
- Leaf Colors: The vibrant colors of fall leaves are due to the breakdown of chlorophyll, revealing pigments like carotenoids (yellow and orange) and anthocyanins (red and purple).
- Animal Behavior: Many animals prepare for winter during the fall. Squirrels gather and store nuts, birds migrate to warmer climates, and bears increase their food intake to build up fat reserves.
