Mabon is celebration of the Autumnal Equinox, a time of balance between light and dark, and gratitude for nature's abundance before winter.
It is a time for feasting, reflection, giving thanks for the year's blessings, and preparing for the colder months, often involving harvest foods, nature walks, and symbolic rituals of balance and gratitude.
Core Themes & Meanings
Balance:
The equal length of day and night symbolizes harmony between light and dark, growth and reflection.
Gratitude:
Thanksgiving to the Earth for its bounty, and acknowledge personal achievements.
Harvest:
Celebrating the gathering of the second harvest, focusing on fruits, grains, and seasonal foods like apples and pumpkins.
Transition:
Moving from the vibrant energy of summer towards the introspection and dormancy of winter.
How to Celebrate
Feast: Share seasonal foods like apple pies, baked goods, and harvest vegetables.
Nature Connection: Go for a walk, collect autumn leaves, or visit a natural area.
Rituals: Light candles, create an altar with autumnal items (leaves, nuts, seasonal fruits), or perform a personal gratitude ritual.
Reflection: Journal about your year's successes, challenges, and what you're letting go of.
Community: Host a bonfire, share recipes, or organize a food drive.
Symbolic Acts: Decorate with autumn colors, perform a symbolic "autumnal cleaning," or commit to learning something new.
Origins & Naming
While rooted in ancient harvest traditions, the name "Mabon" is linked to the Welsh deity Mabon ap Modron, a figure of youthful energy, though the direct connection to the ancient festival is debated.
Mabon is the second of three harvest festivals in the pagan Wheel of the Year, followed by Samhain.