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“August, the monarch of the months, walks with full strides through the fields, thick with yellow grain.” – Elizabeth Barrett Browning
August is a month that straddles the end of the summer and the slow onset of autumn, filled with long, sun-drenched days and warm, starry nights. The air is thick with the hum of cicadas and the sweet scent of ripening fruits, signaling the peak of the harvest season.
Folks savor the waning warmth, taking advantage of the extended daylight with outdoor barbecues, picnics, and vacations. Beaches are teeming with families enjoying the final stretch of summer freedom, balanced with the hustle and bustle of back to school preparations. Evenings bring a welcome coolness, perfect for campfires and stargazing and August’s sunsets are spectacular displays of color, serving as a reminder to soak in the beauty and tranquility of summer’s twilight.
AUGUST ASTROLOGICAL SIGNS
August is associated with two astrological signs: Leo and Virgo. Each sign brings distinct characteristics and influences to those born under them.
LEO (July 23 – August 22)
Leo is a fire sign known for their charismatic and outgoing nature. Ruled by the Sun, they often exude confidence and warmth, drawing people to them with their natural charm and leadership abilities. Leo’s symbol is the lion and although generous and loyal, they can sometimes be perceived as stubborn or attention-seeking.
VIRGO (August 23 – September 22)
Virgos are recognized for their practicality, intelligence, and attention to detail. As an Earth sign, they are grounded and often seek to bring order and efficiency to their surroundings. Ruled by Mercury, Virgos possess sharp analytical skills and are often perfectionists, highly organized and reliable. They can be perceived as being critical at times. This often stems from their desire to improve and refine things. Virgo’s symbol is the maiden.
Together, these signs represent a transition from the bold, expressive energy of Leo to the meticulous and thoughtful nature of Virgo, embodying the shift from the height of summer to the beginning of fall.
AUGUST HOLIDAYS
August hosts the international holidays of World Humanitarian Day (August 19). This day honors humanitarian workers and raises awareness of humanitarian aid work worldwide. It also commemorates those who have lost their lives in the pursuit of helping others. International Youth Day (August 12) aims to draw attention to youth issues worldwide and celebrate the contributions of young people to society.
National holidays include the Assumption of Mary (August 15), a significant religious holiday in many Christian countries and aims to commerate the belief in the Virgin Mary’s bodily ascent into heaven. It is observed in countries such as Italy, France, Spain, and parts of Latin America. Women’s Equality Day (August 26) is a US holiday marking the anniversary of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.
August’s full moon is known as the “Sturgeon Moon.” This name comes from Native American tribes and refers to the time of year when sturgeon, a large fish native to North America, are most readily caught in the Great Lakes. The August full moon has also been known by other names, including Green Corn Moon, Grain Moon and Red Moon. This year, the August full moon will occur on the 19th.
LOCAL HAPPENINGS
As the summer sun warms the Lehigh Valley, Musikfest 2024, held annually in Bethlehem, PA, promises to once again be a spectacular celebration of music, culture, and community. Spanning from August 2 to August 11, this renowned festival transforms downtown Bethlehem into a vibrant tapestry of musical genres, culinary delights, and family-friendly activities. More information can be found here. MUSIKFEST 2024
So enjoy, with its lingering warmth and gentle beauty, August reminds us to savor life’s simple pleasures and to bask in the golden glow of summer’s end.
