The day of spring or vernal equinox is one that is spiritually significant to people of many different cultures and beliefs. Here are a few examples of how this day is celebrated.
Naw-Rúz
This is the Baha’i New Year’s Day and is one of the nine Bahai'i holy days of the year when work is suspended. The origins of Naw-Ruz are uncertain, but it is said to be associate with the Most Great Name of God and is symbolic of the renewal of time. Naw-Ruz follows a nineteen-day period of fasting is often observed with prayer, dancing, music and family or community meals.
Alban Eilir
In Druidism, Alban Eilir is the mid-point or point of balance between the first day of spring (Imbolc) and the time when spring reaches its ripe fullness (Beltane). Loosely translated as "Light of the Earth" Alban Eilir is often celebrated as a time of blessing seeds that will be planted in the coming warm days or any number of festive traditions. While there is no evidence that the ancient Celtic people marked the days of spring equinox, or any of the other solar events, with celebration, it is a special day to modern-day Druids who recognize it as a time of renewal and rebirth.
Ostara, Eostre
Observed by Wiccans and other neo-Pagans, Ostara is one of the four lesser Sabbats, or cross-quarters associated with the Wheel of the Year. Ostara is either traditionally recognized as the time when the young God has reached maturity, or when the Mother Goddess has returned to her young, virginal aspect. The name Ostara comes from the Goddess Eostre who is the Germanic Goddess of fertility and growth. Ostara is seen as a time of renewal and is may be celebrated with spiritual rituals, feasting, games or community gatherings.
Gwyl Canol Gwenwynol
This Welsh version of the spring equinox is considered the day when the restored Sun-God Llew, who was reborn at the time of winter solstice, is old enough to overcome and vanquish his rival and twin. The Mother Goddess, who returned to her younger, virginal aspect at the time of Imbolc, is said to welcome the young Llew's embraces and conceives a child who will be born again at the time of winter solstice. Celebrations for this day are often very similar to those of Ostara and Alban Eiler.
As you can see, the day of spring equinox is rich in spiritual and cultural tradition and is often symbolic of renewal and rebirth.
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