Equinoxes are special astronomical events that occur twice a year, when the sun crosses the celestial equator and the length of the day and night are equal. The two dates are referred to as the vernal and autumnal equinox - the former happening around March 20th and the latter around September 22nd. During the equinoxes, many cultures around the world celebrate the changing of the seasons, but there’s much more to the event than meets the eye. The first special thing about the equinox is that it marks the start of spring and the beginning of fall. The vernal equinox marks when the days become longer and lighter, while the autumnal equinox marks a decrease in daylight hours. It’s an exciting time for people across the globe, as the shift in the seasons can bring about new beginnings and a feeling of renewal. Additionally, many cultures conducted seasonal rituals or held festivals to celebrate the event. The second special thing about the equinox is that it’s the time when the sun crosses the celestial equator. This means the length of the day and night are equal, which only happens twice a year. This is why the equinox is known as a "balance point” in the year. It’s a time of balance between the light and the dark—a perfect moment to contemplate and reflect on life. The equinoxes offer an opportunity to observe the yearly cycle of the sun and to recognize the passing of the seasons. It’s a special moment that’s marked by many cultures across the world, and it’s definitely worth celebrating.