As the sun and moon achieve equilibrium each fall, with the moon rising just as the sun sets, the sky is ablaze with the grandeur of a moon whose reddish hues and prominent size fill the sky. The full moon nearest to the date of the autumnal equinox each year has been dubbed the Harvest Moon. As its name suggests, farmers have historically welcomed this extended period of light as an opportunity to harvest late into the evening.
On Monday, September 24th, the Harvest Moon, with its illustrious warmth of summer heat and surreal magnitude, will welcome the fall season. The sun’s southward movement will be met by the moon’s northward momentum, joining the two forces in a dramatic embrace and beautiful display.
“There’s a full moon risin’
Let’s go dancin’ in the light.”
-Neil Young
The harvest moon’s fervent allure is one that continues to captivate all who lie beneath its warm glow.
The Litchfield Hills, Southern Berkshires & Hudson Valley boast a plethora of idyllic alcoves to enjoy the seductive radiance of equilibrium as the sun and moon come together again to share another late summer embrace.
Dennis Hill – Norfolk, CT (A unique summit stone-pavilion, formerly summer residence, located at an elevation of 1627 feet, is a popular attraction.)
Bartholomew’s Cobble – Ashley Falls, MA (Hurlburt’s Hill rises 1,000 feet to a 20-acre upland field on the Massachusetts–Connecticut border that offers panoramic views northward up the Housatonic River Valley. )
Stissing Mountain – Pine Plains, NY (a 90-foot Fire Tower at the top is the big payoff for a somewhat steep hike straight up the mountain.)
photo: A Harvest Moon via Dan Bush