The first full moon in September, or nearest the autumnal equinox, is known as Harvest Moon. The peak of the 2011 Harvest Moon is on September 12. Depending on moon cycles, the Harvest Moon can occur as late as the first week in October.
What Makes the Harvest Moon Special?
The Harvest Moon rises nearer the time of sunset than most full moons, so the moon appears bigger, brighter, and more colorful than usual. All celestial bodies appear reddish when they appear lower in the sky. The extra light reflected by Harvest Moon would help farmers to harvest their crops later into the evening.
Activities for Harvest Moon Time
- Make Harvest Moon face cookies. These easy cookies were inspired by folk art dolls and woodcuts.
- Make paper mache Harvest Moon lanterns. What kid doesn't love paper mache? And these paper and wire globes can double as Halloween decorations.
- Do some Harvest Moon activities and lesson plans.
- If your kids are willing, you might give a listen to Neil Young's Harvest Moon (video). At minimum interest, there's a Harvest Moon in the video. Or you kids might prefer the Pearl Jam's Harvest Moon (video) or Cassandra Wilson's Harvest Moon (video).
- Read a story featuring the Harvest Moon. The Peace, Love and Rainbows blog offers some Harvest Moon book recommendations.
About the Autumnal Equinox
The autumnal equinox marks the beginning of the fall season. Likewise, the vernal equinox marks the beginning of spring, and the June and December solstices mark the beginnings of summer and winter. For more information on the September equinox, as well as the other equinox and solstices, see "The September Equinox Explained" at timeanddate.com.
The autumnal fall equinox (and the vernal spring equinox) occurs when the sun passes directly over the equator and the earth is not tilted toward or away from the sun. During this time, night and day are about the same length. In the Northern Hemisphere, the fall equinox occurs in late September (September 23, 2011) and the spring equinox in March.
September equinox is, according to folklore and myth, a time of balance when day and night are equal. Interpret the concept of balance in a variety ways for fun and enjoyment during this seasonally festive time.
You might also enjoy: Famous Historical Events in September.
Get ready for: Halloween and Dia de Los Muertos Printables and Activities.
Sara McGrath - Sara is a veteran homeschool mom of three, Usborne consultant, and the author of Unschooling: A Lifestyle of Learning.
Join the Conversation