Why the Autumn Equinox Is Astrology’s Biggest Turning Point
Each year, we watch the world around us grow and change. Just like nature, we, too, go through cycles. While our calendar year begins on January 1, the beginning of our astrological year actually starts when the mighty sun soars into Aries —the first zodiac sign—with the arrival of the spring equinox. Yet, the days have come and gone, and we now stand at a new threshold of a fresh season. In the Northern Hemisphere, we have grown accustomed to long, warm days throughout spring and summer. However, the cosmic shift of the seasons is upon us…leading us into shorter days and longer nights for the months to come. Let’s learn more about the Autumn Equinox!
What Is an Equinox?
Seasons of the year affect our lives significantly. Whether it’s the icy cold of winter or the ferocious heat of summer, we as human beings are at the mercy of the Earth’s elements. The transitions between seasons are especially notable for us as they signal a turning point in our year. These moments are called equinoxes and solstices. In Western astrology, we tie our zodiac year to these “tent poles” of the seasons rather than the exact placement of the stars—which have moved slightly in the last several thousand years.
Spring and autumn arrive upon an equinox, whereas summer and winter begin with a solstice. Solstices always signal the longest or shortest days of the year. Equinoxes, however, are important because they reveal when day and night are equal. Originating from Latin, equinox essentially means “equal night.”
Astronomers note that an equinox takes place at the moment the Earth’s equator is on the same plane of the sun’s equator. Another name for the spring equinox is the “vernal equinox.” You likely learned all about this in school when you were younger—but this is your quick refresher!
What Is the Autumn Equinox?
The Autumn Equinox officially announces the arrival of the fall season. In the Northern Hemisphere, this reveals that the days will be getting shorter as the nights become longer. This transition continues until we reach the Winter Solstice. The Autumn Equinox always takes place around September 22 or 23. At this point in time, the sun crosses the celestial equator and moves south.
How Does the Autumn Equinox Affect Us in Astrology?
When it comes to astrology, the Autumn Equinox always marks the beginning of Libra season. During the first half of the zodiac year, we are more focused on our personal lives and personal worlds from Aries to Virgo season. From Libra to Pisces season, our attention expands more significantly into outer worlds, such as partnerships, professional heights, and expansion beyond the self. Only by working with others and reaching greater echelons can we reach more development, vast new experiences, and completion.
How Does the Autumn Equinox Affect Us Spiritually?
For thousands of years, the Autumn Equinox was a time of hunting, gathering, and harvesting. This often coincided with festivals in ancient societies that celebrated agricultural harvest traditions. Pagans and Wiccans celebrated Mabon, recognizing the beauty and balance of darkness and light. In Asia, people celebrated the Moon Festival, gathering with lanterns and mooncakes. Japanese Buddhists used this time to visit graves and respect their ancestors and elders.
Because of the equilibrium of light and darkness, this is the perfect time to look at the balance in our lives, personally and professionally. How are we functioning in our relationships? How are we living in our highest good but also recognizing our inner shadow? Are we making time for work and play? Are our bodies, minds, and spirits in union? These may be helpful ideas to ponder at this time.
When Is the Autumn Equinox in 2026?
In 2026, the Autumn Equinox officially takes place on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at 11:02 p.m. (Pacific).
How will you be celebrating the Autumn Equinox? Let us know!