Autumn Equinox / Fall Begins

The Observance of the Beginning of Fall, also known as the Autumnal Equinox, is a celestial event that marks the start of the autumn season. It is a moment when the Earth's tilt is neither facing towards nor away from the sun, resulting in an almost equal amount of daylight and darkness across the planet. This significant event holds different cultural and spiritual meanings for various societies around the world, with some considering it a time of balance, harvest, and preparation for the colder months ahead.

In the Netherlands, the Autumnal Equinox has been observed since ancient times. The Dutch people have a strong agricultural history, hence the importance of observing the changing seasons to ensure successful crops. For instance, the famous Keukenhof gardens were initially created in the 15th-century to provide an area where kitchen herbs and vegetables could be grown for the nearby castle. The Autumnal Equinox signifies the end of the growing season and the beginning of harvest, a significant period for a nation with such a rich agricultural past.

In modern times, the Beginning of Fall is observed in the Netherlands with various customs and traditions. Dutch people may use the occasion to prepare their gardens for the colder months, or take part in seasonal outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling through the beautiful fall foliage. The Autumnal Equinox also plays a role in many seasonal events, such as apple and pumpkin festivals, and the famous Dutch tradition of “gezelligheid,” which is loosely translated to the warm feeling of enjoying cozy moments with friends and family. The Autumnal Equinox usually occurs around September 22nd or 23rd in the Netherlands, marking the transition from summer to fall and creating an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate the changing of the seasons.