Mabon

            Mabon is the celebration of the autumn equinox, when day and night are equal in length. It’s known as the pagan Thanksgiving and is a time to give thanks to Mother Earth. It is the perfect time to set intentions for letting go of what no longer serves you, such as relationships and bad habits. As the second harvest festival in the Wheel of the Year, it’s also a time for feasting and gathering with loved ones.  

            Traditionally fall foods are served for Mabon but in my family we do things a little differently. We all choose our favorite food and a dessert. So our spread often includes macaroni and cheese, tacos, sushi, dumplings, and brownies, cookies, and trifle for dessert. We try to spend some extra time in nature, go for a hike or bike ride, and adorn the house with fall décor. For us it marks the beginning of the holiday season and the cozy, comfy feeling can be felt by all throughout the house.

Here are some additional ideas for celebrating Mabon:

·      Make homemade applesauce (click here for crockpot recipe)

·      Make s’mores and listen to the sounds of nature around a fire pit

·      Have a potluck with family and friends

·      Go forest bathing (click here for blog link for more information)

·      Make a nature mandala using found leaves, nuts, pebbles, etc.

·      Put out a feast for the animals (make sure the foods are free of pesticides)

·      Make a list of all the things you are thankful

·      Light a candle and do a guided meditation on gratitude (click here for youtube link)

  There are so many ways to celebrate this beautiful harvest festival. You can look up traditions online, make your own, or create a version of both. There is no right or wrong way. So do what feels special for you!