The season of autumn is almost here, and with that comes the fall 2026 equinox.
Before you know it, the temperatures will start to drop and the days will, if they haven't already, get shorter.
Soon enough, the leaves will start to change colors and fall from the trees.
It is also a time when life — for both plants and people — begins to slow.
Here is what you need to know about this astronomical event marking the transition from summer to fall.
When does the fall equinox begin in 2026? The fall equinox begins Sept. 22, 2026, at 8:04 p.m. EDT in the Northern Hemisphere, according to the Farmer's Almanac .
What is the fall equinox? The autumnal equinox is an astronomical event that marks the exact start of fall and occurs simultaneously worldwide.
Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the Northern Hemisphere, it takes place every September while in the Southern Hemisphere it takes place every March.
After the autumnal equinox, or the first day of fall, days become shorter and nights become longer as the sun rises later and nightfall comes earlier.
This pattern continues until the winter solstice, when the days grow longer once again.
Does the fall equinox have an...