Happy Fall!
The first day of Autumn, or the Autumnal Equinox, is Thursday, September 22. For most, fall means tall boots, cozy sweaters, pumpkin patches, and warm apple cider. Toasty, sweet apple treats may be the first thing on our minds, but let’s explore the historical and even scientific changes of the season.
Fall vs Autumn
Fifteen hundred years ago, the Anglo-Saxons marked the passing of time with just one season: winter. In “Game of Thrones”, “winter is coming” is a phrase that marks that pivotal season and represents the hardships that come with it.
Summer quickly became a similarly honored concept, and the period spanning between summer and winter was originally labeled as a harvesting time. “Autumn”, a Latin word, first appeared in English in the late 14th century, and in the 17th century, the term “fall” came into use. More than likely, “fall” was used as a complementary poetic term for the opposite of “spring.”.
The Equinox is at A Specific Moment
Contrary to popular belief, the equinox is not a daylong event. The equinox occurs at the exact moment the Sun crosses the celestial equator, the imaginary line in the sky above the Earth’s equator. At this exact moment, the Earth’s rotational axis is tilted neither away from nor towards the Sun.
The dates can vary, but rarely. While the Autumnal Equinox usually occurs on the 22nd or 23rd (like this year). The last September 24th equinox occurred in 1931; the next September 21st equinox will not occur until 2092.
The Start of Migration
As the leaves begin to fall, birds that typically nest in the northern hemisphere migrate south in order to take advantage of the insect population, budding plants, and nesting locations. It makes a beautiful spectacle, too, watching flocks of winged friends fly from place to place.
Autumn, or fall (whichever you prefer), is the best time of year to spot birdlife migrating south in Maryland. The bald eagles of Conowingo begin their migration in October. You can spot them perched along the dam, located across from Susquehanna State Park. You’ll also be able to spot this bird, symbolic of our nation, at the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge.
Spot the elusive tundra swans at Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge, which arrive closer to Thanksgiving and stay until early March.
Welcome Autumn (or Fall) with Wockenfuss!
Since 1915, Wockenfuss has been a family owned and operated business creating the finest confections in Baltimore, Maryland. With our nine convenient locations throughout Maryland, there is sure to be a Wockenfuss store near you. Come visit us to see our selection of fall favorites such as candy apples and saltwater taffy. We’d be happy to help you select the perfect sweet treat, whether for you or as a gift for a loved one. If you have any questions about our sweet seasonal candies, please contact Wockenfuss Candies by calling us at 1-800-296-4414 or emailing info@Wockenfusscandies.com. When you’re not savoring our sweets, stay satisfied by following us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Pinterest too!