Introduction to Fall
Aug. 24, 2024
Updated Sep. 2, 2025 at 3:00 p.m. CDT
Pumpkin spice lattes are here, football has returned and Big Tex rises this Friday. It’s fall y’all — or almost.
Many people recognize the first day of fall as the autumnal equinox, which this year is Sunday, Sept. 22 at 7:44 a.m. That’s how fall is recognized astronomically — based on the sun’s position in the sky. Daylight is 12 hours. After that, the days get shorter until the winter solstice.
Understanding the Seasons
Meteorological fall began Sept. 1 and runs through the end of November.
Beyond that, opinions vary on when fall begins.
D-FW Weather Wise
Defining Fall
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For some, fall begins after Labor Day weekend or when school starts. For others, fall doesn’t start until the first Dallas Cowboys regular season game or until the first corny dog turns a golden brown in a fryer at the State Fair. And many others in North Texas believe it’s not really fall until the first cold front blows through.
Meteorologists’ Perspective
When it comes to fall, meteorologists The Dallas Morning News has talked to in the past agree on:
- Meteorological fall runs September through November.
- The autumnal equinox is the astronomical beginning of fall.
- Fall is all about the cold fronts.
North Texas usually doesn’t get its first real cold front of the season until the second half of September, according to the weather service. The average first freeze typically comes Nov. 22. Next question: When is Thanksgiving?
Conclusion
In conclusion, the start of fall can be defined in various ways, including astronomically, meteorologically, and culturally. While some people consider the first day of fall to be the autumnal equinox, others believe it starts after Labor Day weekend or when school begins. Additionally, many people in North Texas think that fall doesn’t truly begin until the first cold front blows through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about fall:
Q: When is the first day of fall?
A: The first day of fall, also known as the autumnal equinox, is Sunday, Sept. 22 at 7:44 a.m.
Q: What is meteorological fall?
A: Meteorological fall runs from September 1 to November 30.
Q: When does the first cold front of the season typically occur in North Texas?
A: The first cold front of the season usually occurs in the second half of September.
Q: What is the average date of the first freeze in North Texas?
A: The average date of the first freeze in North Texas is November 22.
