When is the first day of fall? Everything to know about the Autumn Equinox in Canada

With summer coming to a close, it’s a great time to turn our attention towards all things cozy and colourful. But before the first leaves of the year touch the ground, we’re here to share everything you need to know about this year’s autumn equinox – AKA the first day of fall.

Harvest Moon

The Farmers’ Almanac says that September is a critical month for harvesting crops in the Northern Hemisphere, and as such, the Harvest Moon is recognized as a turning point in the change of seasons.

“The full Moon in September 2024 marks a time to reap what was sewn in the spring,” reads the Almanac. “It’s a time to celebrate the bounty of summer while preparing for long, cold winter months when large swaths of land go dormant.”

Classified as the last full moon before the autumn equinox, the Harvest Moon doubles as this year’s second full Supermoon, which looks approximately 8% bigger and 15% brighter than regular full moons

The second full Supermoon of 2024 (and the Harvest Moon) will take place on Tuesday, September 17th at 10:34 pm ET.

Local moon rising and setting times can be calculated via this calculator by province or city via the Old Farmer’s Almanac.

First day of fall 2024

The Harvest Moon is soon after followed by the Autumn Equinox. So mark your calendars for Sunday, September 22nd at 8:44 am EDT, and get excited for cooler, crisper days ahead!

While the days will continue to get shorter once fall begins, rest assured we won’t officially ‘fall back’ until early November, when Daylight Saving Time ends.

Here are local sunset times on the first official day of fall in 2024 (September 22nd):

• Montreal, QC: 6:50 pm
• Toronto, ON: 7:13 pm
• Calgary, AB: 7:32 pm
• Edmonton, AB: 7:30 pm
• Vancouver, BC: 7:08 pm

So there you have it, fall enthusiasts. Your time is coming soon!

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