close
close
when is fall in 2025

when is fall in 2025

2 min read 30-11-2024
when is fall in 2025

When Does Fall Begin in 2025? Your Autumnal Equinox Guide

The official start of fall in 2025 is September 23rd. This date marks the autumnal equinox, a celestial event signifying the transition from summer to autumn. But what exactly is the autumnal equinox, and why does the date vary slightly from year to year? Let's dive into the details.

Understanding the Autumnal Equinox

The autumnal equinox occurs when the sun crosses the celestial equator, heading south. This means the length of day and night are roughly equal across the globe. After this point, the days become progressively shorter in the Northern Hemisphere, leading to the cooler temperatures and vibrant colors we associate with fall.

The equinox isn't a fixed date on the calendar. The Earth's orbit around the sun isn't perfectly circular, and the Earth's tilt on its axis influences the precise timing of the equinox. This slight variation means the autumnal equinox can fall on September 22nd, 23rd, or 24th.

Fall 2025: Key Dates and What to Expect

  • September 23rd, 2025: This is the official date of the autumnal equinox in 2025, marking the beginning of fall in the Northern Hemisphere.
  • First Day of Meteorological Fall: While the astronomical fall begins on the equinox, meteorologists often use a different calendar. They define fall as September 1st to November 30th for easier data analysis and weather pattern tracking. So, while September 23rd is the official astronomical start, meteorological fall has already begun by then.
  • Changing Seasons: Be prepared for gradually decreasing temperatures, shorter days, and the stunning spectacle of fall foliage. The exact timing and intensity of these changes will vary depending on your geographic location.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Fall Equinox

Q: Why does the date of the autumnal equinox change every year?

A: The Earth's orbit is elliptical, not perfectly circular. Also, the Earth's axial tilt impacts the timing of the equinox. These factors cause a slight shift in the date each year.

Q: What's the difference between the astronomical and meteorological fall?

A: Astronomical fall is defined by the autumnal equinox, while meteorological fall follows a fixed calendar (September 1st – November 30th) for weather forecasting and analysis purposes.

Q: When does fall end?

A: Fall officially ends with the winter solstice, usually around December 21st or 22nd, marking the shortest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere.

Embrace the Season

Now that you know the exact date for the start of fall in 2025, you can start planning your autumnal activities. Whether you're looking forward to pumpkin spice everything, crisp walks through colorful foliage, or cozy nights indoors, enjoy the beauty and bounty of this special season.

Remember to check your local weather forecasts for more specific predictions about temperature changes and fall foliage peaks in your area. Happy Fall!