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Mabon, also known as the Autumn Equinox, is one of the Quarter Days celebrated in various cultures and traditions.
It falls around September 21st to 23rd in the Northern Hemisphere, marking the halfway point between the Summer Solstice and the Winter Solstice.
Astrologically Mabon is when the Sun enters Libra at zero degrees.
During Mabon, day and night are nearly equal in length, symbolizing a moment of balance and harmony in nature.
It is a time to give thanks for the bountiful harvest and to prepare for the cooler months ahead and express gratitude for the abundance of the Earth.
Many people commemorate Mabon by having in feasts, sharing meals with loved ones, and giving thanks for the gifts of the season.
This Quarter Day holds spiritual significance, as it represents a time of reflection, introspection, and preparation for the colder months ahead.
It encourages us to pause and take stock of our lives, giving thanks for the blessings we’ve received and contemplating the lessons learned throughout the year.
Symbolically, Mabon is associated with the theme of letting go, similar to the falling leaves of autumn.
It prompts us to release what no longer serves us and make space for new growth and opportunities in the future.
As the Wheel of The Year turns, Mabon invites us to appreciate the changing seasons, embrace the cycles of life, and find harmony within ourselves and the world around us.
Whether through ceremonies, rituals, or simple moments of gratitude, Mabon provides a chance to connect with nature’s rhythms and celebrate the beauty of the autumnal season.
All the original Astro Artworks on this page are digitally created by Alison.
Her interest in the Solar Cycles and how the annual seasonal flow impacts us all is the inspiration for this piece.
If you love this image of Mabon and you want to get some greeting cards like this, we invite you to visit our Art Shop.
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Traditional colors associated with Mabon reflect the vibrant and earthy hues of the autumn season.
As a harvest festival, Mabon celebrates the bountiful gifts of nature and the changing colors of the landscape.
The colors that are commonly associated with this festival are below.
Orange is one of the most prominent colors of Mabon, representing the warm and inviting tones of autumn foliage.
It symbolizes the changing leaves and the abundance of the harvest season.
Orange is also associated with the setting sun, signifying the waning light and the approaching darkness of winter.
Brown represents the rich, fertile soil that nurtures the crops and allows them to grow and flourish.
It symbolizes the Earth’s abundance and the importance of grounding and stability during the seasonal transition.
Deep red hues, reminiscent of ripe apples and other fall fruits, are often associated with Mabon.
This color represents the life force and energy within the fruits of the harvest.
Red is also linked to the changing color of the leaves as they prepare to fall from the trees.
Yellow is the color of the golden harvest, symbolizing the ripened grains and crops ready for harvest.
It represents prosperity, abundance, and the rewards of hard work and dedication.
Dark green is associated with the evergreen plants that remain vibrant and strong even as the landscape changes around them.
It represents resilience and the continuity of life.
Deep purple hues are reminiscent of grapes and the wine-making process, which is often associated with the harvest season.
Purple also represents transformation and the changing of the seasons.
Gold is a color that signifies the rewards of a successful harvest and the preciousness of nature’s gifts.
It symbolizes the value and abundance of the Earth’s offerings.
These traditional colors associated with Mabon are often used in decorations, altars, candles, and other festive elements during the celebration.
By incorporating these colors, people honor the beauty of the autumn season, express gratitude for the harvest’s bounty, and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for gatherings and rituals during this special time of the year.
To celebrate Mabon with a traditional meal, consider incorporating seasonal ingredients and dishes that reflect the spirit of the festival.
Here's a suggested menu:
As a symbol of abundance and gratitude, a roast turkey or chicken makes for a centerpiece that pays homage to the harvest season.
Alternatively, you can choose a vegetarian roast or stuffed squash for a plant-based option.
Prepare a medley of roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, beets, potatoes, and acorn squash.
These represent the rich colors of autumn and the abundance of the harvest.
Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting and classic addition to the meal.
You can enhance the flavor with garlic, chives, or a touch of nutmeg.
Fresh cranberry sauce complements the main course and adds a burst of tartness and vibrant color to the plate.
Serve warm, freshly baked bread or rolls to signify the importance of grains and agriculture in the harvest season.
Apples are a staple of the autumn harvest, so a delicious apple pie or crisp is a must-have dessert.
Top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Another classic autumn dessert is pumpkin or pecan pie.
Either one would be a delightful addition to your Mabon feast.
Offer a warm and spiced mulled cider as a refreshing beverage option that captures the essence of fall.
Remember, Mabon is a time of giving thanks and reflecting on the blessings of the season, so consider sharing your meal with friends and loved ones in a spirit of community and gratitude.
Enjoy your traditional Mabon feast!
At Mabon, a tradition craft that is often practiced is the creation of corn husk dolls.
This folk-art form dates back centuries and holds deep significance during the harvest season.
Corn husk dolls are typically made from the outer leaves or husks of corn (maize) that have been dried and prepared for crafting.
Here's a step-by-step description of how corn husk dolls are made:
The first step in creating corn husk dolls is to gather the dried corn husks.
These husks are usually available in abundance during the autumn harvest when corn is being harvested and processed.
To make the husks more pliable and easier to work with, they are soaked in warm water for a short period.
This softens the husks and allows them to be shaped without breaking.
Once the husks are adequately soaked, they are carefully arranged to form the body of the doll.
One or more husks are used, depending on the desired size of the doll.
The husks are folded and tied with twine or another natural material to create the doll's head, body, and limbs.
After the basic shape of the doll is formed, additional corn husks or natural materials such as straw, small twigs, or dried flowers may be used to embellish the doll.
These elements can be used to create the doll's hair, clothing, and accessories.
For the doll's face, small pieces of colored cloth, beads, or painted features may be used to represent the eyes, nose, and mouth.
Some crafters prefer to leave the face blank, allowing the simplicity of the husks to create a unique and charming expression.
Once the doll is complete, it is left to dry thoroughly.
As it dries, the husks retain their shape, ensuring the doll maintains its form.
Corn Dolly image: Wikicommons
The significance of corn husk dolls lies not only in their representation of the harvest season and agricultural abundance but also in their connection to ancient traditions and folklore.
In some cultures, corn husk dolls were used as toys for children, while in others, they held spiritual or ritualistic importance, symbolizing fertility, prosperity, and protection.
Today, crafting corn husk dolls remains a cherished Mabon tradition for many, as it allows people to connect with nature, embrace the autumn harvest, and preserve a cultural heritage that spans generations.
Additionally, making corn husk dolls can be a fun and creative activity for families and communities to come together and celebrate the spirit of the season.
Mabon, also known as the autumn equinox, is a time of balance between day and night, marking the transition from the warmer days of summer to the cooler days of fall. It's a significant point on the Wheel of the Year and is often celebrated by various pagan and neopagan traditions. Traditional gatherings during Mabon focus on themes of gratitude, reflection, and the harvest season.
Here's a glimpse into Mabon traditional gatherings:
Mabon traditional gatherings revolve around themes of gratitude, reflection, and the harvest season.
They offer participants the opportunity to connect with nature, each other, and the spiritual significance of the equinox.
Whether you're using astrology as a tool for inspiration or simply seeking to live your best life, Mabon gatherings provide a space for embracing the balance of the season and expressing appreciation for the Earth's abundance.
Creating a sacred space for Mabon, also known as the autumn equinox, allows you to connect with the energies of the season and engage in meaningful rituals and reflections.
A Mabon sacred space is a place where you can honor the balance between light and darkness, express gratitude for the harvest, and embrace the changing energies of fall.
Here's how you can set up a Mabon sacred space:
By setting up a Mabon sacred space, you create a dedicated area where you can honor the energies of the autumn equinox, reflect on the harvest season, and engage in rituals that align with your spiritual practices.
This space serves as a visual representation of your connection to the changing rhythms of nature and the spiritual significance of Mabon.
Here's a poem I wrote that captures the spirit of Mabon, the autumn equinox, and its themes of balance, gratitude, and the changing of the seasons:
As summer's warmth begins to wane,
The equinox arrives again,
A moment's pause in time and space,
When light and dark find their embrace.
The scales of nature gently sway,
As night and day hold equal sway,
A harmony of sun and moon,
In Mabon's gentle, whispered tune.
The leaves, ablaze in colors bright,
Bid summer's fond farewell tonight,
And in their fall, a sacred dance,
Of letting go with elegance.
The fruits of labor, rich and sweet,
Now gathered in for all to eat,
A feast of gratitude we share,
For earth's provision, tender care.
With every bite, a whispered prayer,
For cycles, gifts beyond compare,
The turning wheel, a constant guide,
As seasons shift and worlds collide.
In this moment of perfect blend,
We find the balance, time to spend,
To honor Earth's abundant store,
And give thanks for the evermore.
As autumn's cloak wraps earth in gold,
The stories of the year are told,
In Mabon's light, we find our way,
A dance of night and equal day.
This poem reflects the themes of balance, gratitude, and the harvest season that Mabon embodies.
It can be recited during rituals, gatherings, or moments of reflection to honor the energy of the autumn equinox.
If you're looking for a folk dance to embrace the spirit of Mabon and connect with nature's rhythms, the "Harvest Reel" might be a perfect choice.
The Harvest Reel is a lively and joyful folk dance that embodies the essence of the season.
It can be performed outdoors, surrounded by the beauty of nature, or even indoors to bring the spirit of the outdoors in.
This dance is all about celebrating the abundance of the harvest and the changing of the seasons.
To perform the Harvest Reel, you can follow these simple steps:
Remember, the Harvest Reel isn't about perfect choreography.
It's about embracing the energy of the season, connecting with your fellow dancers, and expressing your gratitude for the bounties of the earth.
Feel free to add your own twists and movements inspired by the natural world around you.
By dancing the Harvest Reel, you'll be living in tune with the solar cycles, celebrating the Wheel of the Year, and embodying the essence of Mabon.
Whether you're dancing in a meadow, a park, or your own living room, this dance will help you connect with nature, celebrate the harvest, and live your best life in harmony with the changing seasons.
Alison wants to help you uncover your individual creativity and lead a fulfilling life using your own astrology. She shares her wisdom from the heart with a touch of humor.
Learn more about Alison's journey.
If you'd like to get in touch with Alison, you can reach out to her via email at starzology@gmail.com.
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My Yule page is an acknowledgement of the Wheel of the Year as the Sun enters Capricorn on December 21 we are at the solstice.
I have the symbol for Yule in the top left and on the top right has an oakleaf to symbolize the movement from the Holly King to the Oak King which happens on Yule.
Yule and the solstice is the actual beginning of the Wheel of the Year.
It’s the dead of winter. In my drawing that I have a yule log burning in the fire.
The idea is that you get one long big tree which is your you’ll log and you stick the fat and into the fireplace and you liked it on December 21 and as it slowly burns you push the tree into the great and I delete should be in for at least 12 days.
Yule is a time where we are symbolizing the shift from the dark and we start to slowly move into the light.
This time of the year is symbolized by candles the fire and brightness.
December 21st is the shortest day of the year it is also known as the Roman festival of Saturnalia.
Saturn rules Capricorn so it all fits in quite neatly.
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Lammas is typically celebrated on August 1st each year.
However, it is more correct to say that Lammas is when the Sun reaches 15º of the fixed sign of Leo the lion.
In 2021, the Sun will be at this position in the zodiac on Sunday, August 8th.
To be honest, it does not really matter that you celebrate Lammas at the exact time, but that you celebrate at all.
Often in the civil calendar, if a public holiday falls mid-week we celebrate it on the Sunday that follows or the Sunday beforehand.
An example of this is Remembrance Sunday which technically occurs on November 11th every year, but which is always taken as the closest Sunday to that date.
I’ve drawn a page for Lammas in my astrology journal.
It is a sheaf of wheat that symbolizes the early harvest of the first sweet ears of cereal in August that is used to bake the Lammas Loaf of bread.
I’m trying to focus on one symbol for each festival in the Wheel of the Year.
Lammas celebrates the baking of the first loaf of bread with the current year’s wheat.
It signifies bounty and good food and prosperity to come.
But let’s face it, in the modern world if you live in a city like I do you just go down to the corner store and pick up some bread that’s already baked.
Personally, I’m not in the habit of making my own bread, but when I do, it is at Lammas that I bake.
My daughter has recently started baking bread and I’m going to share the recipe she uses with you here.
This simple method uses three ingredients bread flour, yeast and salt.
You may have a family recipe and that would be an ideal one to use for your Lammas first loaf.
In the week running up to Lammas, my daughter baked several loaves which our whole family enjoyed.
She brought a Lammas loaf over to my home by travelling on the train, as the trip is quite far, but I truly appreciated her gesture.
Your Lammas loaf is best consumed when still warm.
I like it slathered with butter or, for a special treat, honey.
It is the type of food you can keep snacking on long into the evening.
The next day bread can be a litlle harder as it has lost its initial softness and springability.
I choose to cut next day bread into thinner slices and toast them.
Always try to get your Lammas toast “golden” and not charred.
Enjoy your slices with tea or coffee as a great mid-morning snack.
In your astrology journal, book of shadows or grimoire please do the following:
Share your page on social with the hashtag #starzologywheeloftheyear or email me the link to startzology@gmail.com.
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The wheel of the year is a diagram that shows the Sun’s movement through the twelve signs of the tropical zodiac from Aries to Pisces.
You can draw a wheel of the year in many ways, but they still represent the passing of time throughout a twelve-month period.
Typically, the diagram flows clockwise like time on a clock face, but astrologers flow them counterclockwise to align with the zodiac from which the dates originally come and the rising of the Sun at the Ascendant.
The special eight celebration days have been used for centuries in many cultures around the world.
If you draw your own wheel of the year, you can color it and add the symbols that resonate with you.
In the modern world, there is no right or wrong way to tap into this ancient calendar.
Follow your instincts and create a wheel of the year diagram that speaks to you.
As an astrologer you would typically draw the wheel of the year in your astrology journal.
If you are more of a pagan, you can create your wheel of the year in your book of shadows or grimoire.
We have watched the Sun mark time as it rises and sets every day.
At a broad stroke, the Sun’s rising position on the horizon moves slightly each day.
The daylight hours are longer in summer and shorter in winter.
Every year the Sun transits through the 360º of the tropical zodiac, and in its passing, marks special days in the year.
The Sun’s path crosses the four cardinal points each year which mark the beginning of the four seasons, spring, summer, autumn and winter.
Please note that these dates are for the northern hemisphere.
The four quarter days divide the year up into four quarters.
They are the dates of the two equinoxes and two solstices.
The cross-quarter days divide each of the four quarters of the year.
The cross quarter days are midway between the equinoxes and the solstices.
These dates are around the 8th of the inbetween months and each year is slightly different.
The definition of a cross-quarter day is when the Sun reaches fifteen degrees of the fixed signs.
Around March 21st, the Sun crosses the celestial equator at 0º Aries, moving north for three months.
It is the Aries ingress and this is springtime.
The pagan celebration of Ostara is aligned with the equinox when the day and night is the same.
The pagan festivity of Beltane is the day the Sun reaches 15 º of Taurus.
This is often celebrated on May 1st each year.
Around June 21st, the Sun reaches its highest declination at around 23.5º north at 0º Cancer.
Now the Sun moves back towards the celestial equator for three months.
The Cancer ingress heralds summer.
The pagan celebration of Litha is on the midsummer’s day which is the longest day of the year and the day with the most sunlight.
As the Sun reaches 15 Leo, which is typically on August 8th, it is the cross-quarter day of Lammas.
However, the pagan celebration of Lammas is usually celebrated on August 1st.
Read more >>> Lammas
Around September 21st, the Sun crosses the celestial equator moving south at 0º Libra and continues for three months during autumn or fall.
The Libra ingress happens at the autumn equinox and the start of the new season.
The pagan celebration of Mabon is usually celebrated on October 1st which is a date close to the equinox.
Read more >>> Mabon
The pagan celebration of Samhain is when the Sun passes over 15º of Scorpio, which is around November 8th.
In general, this special day is usually celebrated on October 31st as Halloween.
All Saint’s Day follows of November 1st.
Read more >>> Halloween
Around December 21st, the Sun’s declination reaches around 23.5º south as it enters 0º Capricorn.
Now the Sun moves back up towards the celestial equator which takes three months and it is wintertime.
As the Sun enters Capricorn it is known as the Capricorn ingress when the winter season begins.
The pagan celebration of Yuletide is celebrated on midwinter’s day.
Read more >>> Yule
Imbolc occurs when the Sun reaches 15 degrees of Aquarius which is usually around February 8th, although Imbolc is celebrated around February 1st each year.
One symbol for Imbolc is Brighid’s cross made from wheat sheaves or corn dollies.
Listen to podcast episode >>> Imbolc for 2024
As an aspiring astrologer, it is valuable to understand when the dates for the cardinal signs and the cross-quarter days happen as they shift a little each year.
These special days are not just plucked out of thin air.
Often at the start of a new season, the news channels will state that, “Spring is starting on March 21st at 4:37pm” and this statement may seem weird.
Now that you know how each season is timed (by the Sun’s ingress into a cardinal sign), you can fully understand the seasonal changes and the cross-quarter days that occur at around six-week intervals.
If you are just starting out, pay attention to the equinoxes and solstices first.
Then explore the cross-quarter days afterwards.
The whole year begins at the vernal equinox when the Sun enters Aries around March 21st every year.
In your astrology journal and with a compass and protractor, please do the following:
Share your drawing on social with the hashtag #starzologywheeloftheyear or send a link to your artwork to me at starzology@gmail.com.
October 31 is Halloween and this time is also known as All Hallows’ Eve.
Astrologically the sign Scorpio is associated with the end of things, death and the dead.
The animal that symbolizes Scorpio is the scorpion. Not all scorpions are poisonous but many are deadly.
It seems the smaller the species the more venomous the sting. Several scorpions simply paralyze their prey and eat them live.
Every Halloween, on October 31st, the Sun is at 7°/8° Scorpio, but technically Halloween occurs when the Sun reaches 15° Scorpio. Which is a few days later.
We use the date of October 31st, which is fine, to get the date in the calendar and it is now a set convention.
But as aspiring astrologers reading this I just wanted to be clear on the Sun’s position.
Halloween is traditionally the night the dead rise from their graves until the dawn of All Saints Day when they are once more put to rest.
Hence skeletons and ghosts are the theme.
Now this is a practice that sticks in my craw.
I love that the kids dress up and have super inventive costumes. This stimulates creativity and their imagination.
I love the streets and gardens decorated with tombstones, spiders and pumpkins.
Some have smoke and eerie music to set the tone for the evening.
Having lived in Africa, where hunger is pretty much the norm for many people, the practice of buying candy to give to the kids at the door, so they can have a sackful at the end of the night is strangely disturbing.
I would be happier if the kids gathered food for those in need instead.
Maybe I’m still not fully assimilated into life in North America.
They do say that resistance is futile.
All Saints Day follows Halloween on November 1st each year.
Traditionally Samhain begins at sunset on October 31st each year.
It is an old Celtic festival which came from the northern hemisphere and celebrates the completion of taking in the harvest and crops.
It indicates the darker days of the year and winter will soon be upon us.
Samhain is traditionally celebrated with the burning of village bonfires.
Samhain and Halloween are dates in the Wheel of the Year.
I have a couple of articles on the Wheel of the Year which you can check out below.
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