Now that winter is over, we welcome a new season. But this time we open the month of March with a cosmic event; the spring equinox!
An event that marks the moment when day and night have the same length. Therefore, in this blog, we will explore all its details, from what it is to when it occurs and some of the rituals related to this astronomical phenomenon.
All about the Spring Equinox
1. What is the Spring Equinox?
The spring equinox is an astronomical event that marks the beginning of spring in the Northern Hemisphere (Central and North America, Europe, Asia, etc.) and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere (South America, Oceania and Africa).
It occurs when the sun is directly over the equator, resulting in an even distribution of sunlight over the entire planet. As a result, days and nights become approximately the same length in all parts of the world.
2. When is the Spring Equinox 2024?
This phenomenon, known as the equinox, occurs twice a year, once in March and once in September. Also, depending on where you are in the world, the dates may vary.
However, in the Northern Hemisphere, the Spring Equinox usually takes place on March 20th or 21st, while the Autumnal Equinox is received between September 22nd and 23rd.
This year 2024, according to the calculations of the National Astronomical Observatory, in the Northern Hemisphere spring will begin on March 20th at 4:06 pm, official peninsular time. For Mexicans, it will begin on March 21st, at approximately 3:24 pm in Yucatán and 4:24 pm in Cancun.
3. Rituals related to the Spring Equinox
To many, the spring equinox is a time of renewal and growth, and several cultures celebrate it with special rituals and ceremonies. In the Mayan world, some of the traditions that still survive include the following.
Spring mayan blessing
This is one of the best known rituals of the ancient Maya, performed mainly to give thanks for the beginning of the harvest season and to honor the gods of the sun and fertility.
Today, some communities such as Cobá and Sahcab Mucuy still perform similar ceremonies, including blessings, music and the performance of traditional dances.
In case you wish to participate in this event, we suggest you visit Aldea Coba, a boutique hotel in the Mayan jungle. You can find all the details of the event here.
Chichén Itzá
Another celebration that involves the spring equinox is the one that takes place in Chichen Itza, an archaeological site and wonder of the world. Famous for the pyramid of Kukulkán, where every year a unique play of light and shadow takes place.
To be more specific, figures are formed on the steps of the pyramid that resemble the body of a snake descending with the sunset. According to Mayan culture, this symbolizes the arrival of the god Kukulkan, coming to fertilize the earth for the next harvests.
This astronomical phenomenon attracts visitors from all over the world to celebrate the arrival of spring in a historical and culturally significant setting.
Teotihuacán
During this season, many visitors head to Teotihuacan, dressed in white, to ascend the Pyramid of the Sun. Inspired by ancient traditions, this symbolic act seeks to absorb the energy to renew and bring prosperity to the new year.
This ancestral ritual allows them to connect with their ancestors and ask for energy and health to the gods. It is even believed that on this day the energy portals open, and climbing the pyramid is a way to take advantage of it.
4. Experience the Spring Equinox at Aldea Cobá
If you are looking for a unique way to celebrate the spring equinox in 2024, we invite you to join Aldea Cobá’s annual event. Here, through Brother Egilio, a third generation Maya shaman, you can be part of an authentic Maya blessing.
Besides celebrating the beginning of a new era, you will be able to enjoy the natural beauty of Cobá and share the knowledge of the Mayan civilization, respecting the space that was once part of this important civilization.
We remind you that the next spring blessing will take place on Thursday, March 21st, 2024, for more information about this experience visit our website or call our direct line 998 342 0198 and receive personalized attention.
Immerse yourself in culture and tradition while celebrating this celestial event in a unique and welcoming environment.
