No, the autumn equinox (September 21st) isn’t just a physical and astronomical date marking the arrival of the cooler season after the summer heat. For many, it’s a true rebirth, because autumn brings a less aggressive climate, a new work season, new harvests… in short, a brand new beginning. In fact, in some ancient cultures, this is the true “New Year’s Day”. And there are dozens of traditions around the world that celebrate the equinox, the moment when night and day are equal in length. We have chosen five, evocative and not necessarily ancient events. Because even our modern times need magic. Where will you celebrate your equinox?
Thermal Yoga in Tuscany, Italy
The Saturnia hot springs in Tuscany are a fairytale place. A series of natural pools, connected by waterfalls of thermal water, allow you to stay warm even on the coldest nights. Celebrating the autumn equinox here is an unforgettable experience! Not only because you can enjoy the night benefiting from the spa… but also because a yoga event is organized here specifically to “welcome” the arrival of autumn.
Whether you’re a fan of this discipline or just curious, trying it in that context and on that exact day is highly recommended. Yoga relaxes, regenerates, and helps you reconnect with yourself to find new energy. A new beginning, in short. Exactly what the equinox symbolizes for everyone.
Although located in Tuscany, in the area of Grosseto, the Saturnia pools are geographically closer to region Lazio, so the most convenient airport is Rome Fiumicino (FCO), which is less than two hours away.
Waiting for sunrise at Stonehenge, UK
There is nothing more magical than the archaeological complex of Stonehenge in Salisbury, UK. Located just an hour-and-a-half’s drive from London Heathrow Airport (LHR), it is the most popular destination for these secular celebrations. The aura of mystery still hovers over these enormous prehistoric stones arranged in a circle surrounding an altar which is dedicated to some ancient deity.
According to some theories, the sun was once worshipped here, and pagan-like rituals are still held here during the solstices in December and June. But lately, rituals related to the equinoxes have also been celebrated. In particular, on the autumn equinox, people spend the night here, singing, reciting verses, while waiting to see the sunrise through the sacred stones. Believe such rituals or not, the spectacle of the rising sun in this energetic place is certainly the best way to usher in autumn.
Prayers to the Inca Gods at Cusco, Peru
Cusco (or Cuzco) is the ancient capital of the Inca Empire. Today, it is a beautiful colonial city and one of the most populous in Peru, served by its own international airport (CUZ) —effectively the gateway to some of the most evocative places in the Andes. Not far from here lies Machu Picchu, the museum-city of ancient Andean civilizations, but central Cusco also has its own traditions linked to the Inca world.
During the autumn equinox, the city celebrates ancient rites dedicated to Pacha Mama (Mother Nature), with which the natives thanked the earth for the harvest and hoped for good luck for the next one. The ancient bloody celebrations have now been replaced by colorful and festive events, filled with beautiful music and excellent food. Those who don’t want to travel all the way to Machu Picchu can simply climb to Sacsayhuaman, an imposing fortress perched on a hill overlooking the city, and attend the traditional rites there.
Autumn colors of Kyoto, Japan
The explosion of colors from the falling autumn leaves is called “feuillage” and is an event that can be celebrated anywhere in the world. If there are forests with trees changing their leaves, you can witness the golden, red, and brown hues of autumn. In Japan, however, this magic is even more evocative when admired among the ancient, thousand-year-old temples of Kyoto, also known as “Florence of Japan.” As early as September, the trees in the parks here are painted with warm hues, while the leaves begin to fall with the first winds, creating soft carpets at the foot of pagodas, Buddha statues, and red altars.
Don’t miss the opportunity to come and experience the autumn equinox in Kyoto, which has its main airport in nearby Osaka (Osaka Kansai Airport), less than 100 km away.
Candles in the River of Vilnius, Lithuania
Autumn is a romantic time in the cold Lithuania, specifically in the capital, Vilnius. If the marvelous beauty of this city, with its Germanic architecture and Russian elegance, isn’t enough, get involved in its equinox celebrations.
Here, tradition has it that on this night the people light hundreds of candles along the banks of the Neris River to welcome autumn. And by candlelight, you can also visit the food and craft markets scattered throughout the old central quarters, savoring with every sense—it’s fair to say—the autumnal warmth, less cruel than summer’s.
The capital of Lithuania is easy to reach with Transfeero’s excellent private transportation, departing from Vilnius Airport, located just 7 km away!
