Halloween/Samhain

Friday, August 16, 2024

Mabon, The Pagan Thanksgiving




The Pagan Thanksgiving, Mabon is the Autumn Equinox, celebrated September 22, 23.
It’s when day and night are equal, making it a time of balance, equality and harmony.  

The autumnal equinox is a time to bid farewell to the Sun. 
It is associated with the end of the harvest, and is a time of thanksgiving.

Traditionally, Mabon is a time to appreciate the fruits of the Earth, and to seek the blessings of the Goddess and God for the difficult winter months ahead.

In addition to the completion of the harvest, the fall equinox is seen by some as a time of rebirth and reincarnation.
Mabon is one of the Lesser Sabbats.
Mabon is celebrated on the fall / autumnal equinox. 

Back in the early times of Mabon it was a celebration of the second harvest (Lughnasadh was the first) when farmers harvested foods like gourds, pumpkins, grapes and apples. 

Mabon celebrations is giving thanks for the abundance of Mother Earth - both literally and spiritually.  It’s also a good time to reflect on the Wheel of the Year, recognizing your successes and letting go of the things that did not serve you over the past year.

Named after the ancient Welsh hero named Mabon ap Modron, which means Son of Mother, Mabon is the second of three harvest festivals that take place in the Wheel of the Year (Lughnasadh is the first and Samhain is the third).  

As the Wheel of the year nears its end, Mabon is a good time to set intentions that involve keeping your circle small, ending bad relationships.
It’s also time to let go of unhealthy habits or self destructive beliefs. 

One of the best ways to celebrate Mabon is decorating your home for autumn.  Using fresh and dried flowers and gourds throughout the house.

If you opt to celebrate Mabon by yourself, look for a quiet space outside to reflect and meditate.
And then treat yourself to a nice harvest meal. 
Mabon is a great time to detach and release the baggage of the past y
Here are some other ideas...
  • Host a bonfire (you can even use your BBQ) Gather your close friends and family.
  • Decorate your porch or entryway with traditional autumn colors.
  • Write down the things you are grateful for.
  • Have a picnic in your own yard or house.
  • Clean your house and get rid of stagnant or negative energy.
  • Host a potluck Mabon dinner with your favorite people.