Astronomical seasons are based on the Earth's position relative to the sun. Fall officially begins with the (usually September 22 or 23) and ends with the Winter Solstice (usually December 21 or 22).
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For casual conversation and scheduling, meteorological fall is usually more practical. For traditions, astrology, or marking the exact change of seasons, astronomical fall is the correct choice. what months are the fall
Foliage timing varies dramatically by latitude, altitude, and local climate. In Florida, fall color may not appear until December. In the Canadian Rockies, leaves can start changing in late August.
Everything above applies to the (North America, Europe, most of Asia, northern Africa). Because the Earth’s hemispheres experience opposite seasons, the fall months in the Southern Hemisphere are reversed: Astronomical seasons are based on the Earth's position
Pumpkin patches, apple picking, and Halloween festivities dominate the month. November: The Gateway to Winter
| Aspect | Astronomical Fall | Meteorological Fall | Perceptual / Cultural Fall | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | | Late Sept to Late Dec | Sept, Oct, Nov | Sept, Oct, Nov | | Start Date | Sept 21-24 | Sept 1 | After Labor Day (US) or school starts | | End Date | Dec 20-23 | Nov 30 | Before Thanksgiving or first snow | | Based On | Earth's orbit & tilt | Annual temperature cycle | Sights, sounds, & traditions | | Key Feature | Autumnal Equinox | Consistent data months | Fall foliage & harvest holidays | In Florida, fall color may not appear until December
By November, the foliage has mostly fallen, and the weather becomes significantly colder. In many regions, this month brings the first frosts, heavy winds, and even early snow. It is the bridge between the beauty of autumn and the deep cold of winter. Summary Table: When is Fall? Definition Meteorological September 1 – November 30 Northern Hemisphere Astronomical Sept 22/23 – Dec 21/22 Southern Hemisphere Meteorological March 1 – May 31 Southern Hemisphere Astronomical March 20/21 – June 20/21 Final Thoughts