Autumn, or fall as it's known in North America, officially begins on the autumnal equinox. This isn't a fixed date on the calendar; it varies slightly from year to year. For 2025, fall begins on Wednesday, September 23rd.
Understanding the Autumnal Equinox
The autumnal equinox marks the moment the sun crosses the celestial equator, heading southward. This means that day and night are roughly equal in length across the globe. After this point, the days become shorter and the nights longer in the Northern Hemisphere, signaling the start of autumn.
Why the Date Varies
The date of the equinox shifts slightly each year because the Earth's revolution around the sun isn't perfectly aligned with our calendar year. The Earth's orbit is elliptical, not perfectly circular, and this slight variation affects the exact timing of the equinox. Leap years also play a role in this minor annual shift.
What to Expect During Fall 2025
As the leaves change color and fall from the trees, it's a time of beautiful scenery and enjoyable activities for many people. From pumpkin spice lattes to cozy nights indoors, fall offers a distinct and much-loved seasonal change. Expect cooler temperatures, shorter days, and a shift in the natural world as it prepares for winter.
Seasonal Activities and Events
Fall offers a wealth of activities and events. Consider the following:
- Leaf Peeping: Take scenic drives or hikes to admire the vibrant fall foliage.
- Apple Picking: Many orchards open their doors to allow families to pick their own apples.
- Pumpkin Patches: A quintessential fall activity, perfect for children and adults alike.
- Harvest Festivals: Many communities host festivals celebrating the harvest season.
- Halloween Preparations: As the days get shorter, the excitement builds for Halloween celebrations.
Beyond the Equinox: Meteorological Fall
While September 23rd marks the astronomical start of fall, meteorologists often use a different definition. They define seasons based on the annual temperature cycle. For the Northern Hemisphere, meteorological fall runs from September 1st to November 30th. This consistent calendar-based approach simplifies weather tracking and analysis.
Therefore, depending on whether you're using the astronomical or meteorological definition, the start of fall in 2025 is either September 23rd or September 1st.
This information should help you understand when fall officially starts in 2025 and what to expect during this beautiful season. Remember to check local weather forecasts and event calendars for specific information in your area!
