It is the time of the autumn equinox, and the harvest is winding down. The fields are nearly empty, because the crops have been plucked and stored for the coming winter. Mabon is the mid-harvest festival, and it is when we take a few moments to honor the changing seasons, and celebrate the second harvest. On or around September 21, for many Pagan and Wiccan traditions it is a time of giving thanks for the things we have, whether it is abundant crops or other blessings. You may want to take a moment to read up on:
Rituals and Ceremonies
Depending on your individual spiritual path, there are many different ways you can celebrate Mabon, but typically the focus is on either the second harvest aspect, or the balance between light and dark. This, after all, is the time when there is an equal amount of day and night. While we celebrate the gifts of the earth, we also accept that the soil is dying. We have food to eat, but the crops are brown and going dormant. Warmth is behind us, cold lies ahead. Here are a few rituals you may want to think about trying -- and remember, any of them can be adapted for either a solitary practitioner or a small group, with just a little planning ahead.
- Setting Up Your Mabon Altar
- Mabon Altar Gallery
- Ten Ways to Celebrate the Autumn Equinox
- Honor the Dark Mother at Mabon
- Mabon Apple Harvest Rite
- Autumn Full Moon -- Group Ceremony
- Mabon Balance Meditation
Traditions and Trends
Interested in learning about some of the traditions behind the celebrations of September? Find out why Mabon is important, learn the legend of Persephone and Demeter, and explore the magic of apples and more!
- Mabon Celebrations Around the World
- Persephone and Demeter
- Michaelmas
- The Gods of the Vine
- Nutting Day
- Symbolism of the Stag
- Acorns and the Mighty Oak
- Pomona, Goddess of Apples
- Scarecrows
Mabon Magic
Mabon is a time rich in magic, all connected to the changing seasons of the earth. Why not take advantage of nature's bounty, and work a little magic of your own?
- Mabon Prayers
- Apple Magic
- Hearth & Home Protection Ritual
- Grapevine Magic
- The Magic of the Kitchen Witch
- Raise Energy with a Drum Circle
Crafts and Creations
As the autumnal equinox approaches, decorate your home (and keep your kids entertained) with a number of easy craft projects. Start celebrating a bit early with these fun and simple ideas.
- Make a God's Eye for Mabon
- Prosperity Candles
- Mabon Cleansing Wash
- Mabon Harvest Incense
- Make Your Own Ink
Feasting and Food
No Pagan celebration is really complete without a meal to go along with it. For Mabon, celebrate with foods that honor the hearth and harvest -- breads and grains, autumn veggies like squash and onions, fruits, and wine.
