Fall 2026 Begins with Autumnal Equinox on September 22
The autumnal equinox, marking the official start of fall in the Northern Hemisphere, will occur on Tuesday, September 22, 2026, at precisely 8:04 p.m. ET. This astronomical event happens when the sun crosses directly above Earth's equator, resulting in nearly equal hours of day and night. While meteorological fall began on September 1 and runs through November 30, the equinox signifies the transition to astronomical fall. Daylight hours are gradually decreasing across New York State, with cities like Watertown, Buffalo, and Rochester expected to experience approximately 12 hours and 10 minutes of daylight on the equinox. By contrast, New York City will see slightly less daylight at 12 hours and 9 minutes. The first day of winter is set for December 21, 2026, coinciding with the winter solstice at 3:50 p.m. ET. [Source: Democrat and Chronicle]
