september equinox

The September Equinox is a time of celebration and transition as the Sun moves across the equator from the northern hemisphere into the southern hemisphere. The Sun will appear directly above the equator for a few days and the hours of darkness and light will be very nearly the same all over the globe

The Southern Hemisphere - Ostara

Traditionally, in the southern hemisphere it is a time to celebrate Ostara, a time of growth and renewal and the emergence of Spring. Rituals honoring fertility, new beginnings and rebirth are performed at this time.

Although in Australia our seasonal observances are different to those which were introduced by Europeans in an effort to align with their seasonal divisions of the year. Dr. Beth Gott of the School of Biological Sciences, Monash University compiled a seasonal calendar specific to the Melbourne Area:

“This time of year, September to October, is considered True Spring. This is a time when the Wattle tree is in full bloom, snakes are becoming active, young Kangaroos come out of the pouch and tadpoles appear in ponds”

Daffodils in my garden

Blossoms are appearing on the trees, native orchids have emerged from the ground, bulbs such as daffodils, bluebells and hyacinths are blooming; camelias and magnolias are abundant with flowers.

In the northern hemisphere Mabon is celebrated at the September Equinox, a time to harvest. Rituals of gratitude to thank the Earth for her abundant gifts of beauty and nourishment are performed at this time.