Now is the time we celebrate the harvest and begin to prepare for the winter. September is one of those in-between times - the mornings and evenings are cool, but the midday sun usually brings lots of heat! Each day gets shorter and shorter and each evening comes quicker and quicker. The grasses are drying up, leaves are starting to change, and the birds and butterflies are starting to migrate south. The air feels, smells, and tastes different. During the Fall Equinox, traditionally called Mabon, the cooling winds encourage positive changes and promote fresh starts..

Most crops have already been brought in. But now the grapes are ready to be harvested and made into wine. Traditionally, celebrations honoring Dionysus and Bacchus took place, during festivals who's roots have blossomed into our modern day Thanksgiving (moved to November for political reasons). Join in the festivities by making your own wine (see recipe below). Invite family and friends over for a potluck! Set your party up outdoors, if you can, and enjoy the lovely weather. Ask everyone to bring their "special dish", and serve seasonal foods, like corn, gourds, apples, and squash. Drink! Dance! After the sun goes down, light a bonfire - a sterno in a fireproof container is just fine - and invite your guests to share what they are thankful for (this tradition is especially important in light of recent tragedies).