Autumn is officially here.
The Autumn Equinox marks the point in the year when day and night are roughly equal in length, before the Northern Hemisphere begins moving towards shorter days and longer nights. In the UK, the 2026 Autumn Equinox fell on 23 September.
For many Pagans and witches, the Equinox is also a time to think about harvest, balance, gratitude and the changing seasons.
But what is Mabon?
You may have heard the Autumn Equinox called Mabon.
There is a bit of confusion around this name. Mabon is a figure from Welsh mythology, but there isn’t evidence that ancient Welsh people celebrated an autumn festival called Mabon.
The use of Mabon as a name for a modern Pagan Autumn Equinox celebration developed much more recently. Some people use the name and celebrate Mabon, while others simply call it the Autumn Equinox or use other seasonal traditions.
Personally, we think it’s always worth knowing where these traditions actually come from rather than simply repeating everything you see online.
A time to slow down
One of the nicest things about this time of year is that you don’t need an elaborate ritual to mark it.
You could light a candle, burn some incense, spend a little time with your tarot cards, take a walk and notice the changing leaves, or simply sit down and think about the year so far.
What are you grateful for?
What has gone well?
And what would you like to leave behind as we move into the darker months?
There isn’t a right or wrong way to do it.
Bringing autumn into your home
As the evenings get darker, it’s a lovely time to make your space feel a little more atmospheric.
Candles, incense, crystals, tarot and altar pieces can all be incorporated into your own practice, whether you’re Pagan, witchy, spiritual, or simply enjoy the atmosphere and folklore surrounding the season.
You don’t need a huge collection of things either. Sometimes a candle, a favourite deck and a quiet evening is enough.
However you celebrate…
Whether you call it Mabon, the Autumn Equinox, Harvest Home, or simply the start of autumn, it’s a good opportunity to pause and appreciate the changing season.
From all of us at The Newport Curiosity Shop & Cody’s Magick Apothecary, have a beautiful autumn.
Browse our witchy, magical and curious finds online or visit us in Newport.