Autumn Harvest 

By Moira Andrews 

The word Harvest is derived from the Anglo-Saxon haerfest, also meaning autumn. 

September is the start of Harvest season. Harvest season is when farmers collect annual crops like wheat, grain, corn, peppers, and apples. It is beneficial to gather crops at this time because of the higher nutrients in them. According to goodharvest.com, crops begin to lose their nutrients the second they are harvested, so its best to eat them as soon as possible.  

One of the most common ways to celebrate this time of year is with dinners or feasts featuring special dishes. Thanksgiving is considered a Harvest season holiday. Harvest festivals are another way to celebrate. Many different activities are done at Harvest festivals. Honesthistory.com explains that traditions vary from nation to nation. However, each event typically involves dancing, feasting or fasting, and religious observation. Christians use this holiday of showing gratitude for Gods creation, especially the nutrients for us to eat. Though it is meant to show thanks to God, any religion can celebrate and go to Harvest festivals to participate in the activities.  

When asked what she knew about Harvest season, Samantha Pierwsza, a student in Law enforcement said, “There are multiple crops harvested at different times of the year. At our farm, we harvest hay, grain, and corn. Hay is harvested usually three times in a summer season. Grains like oats, are normally harvested in July. Corn is harvested in the fall.” 

When asked if she participates in Harvest season, Maxwell Berry, a student in Culinary said, “Very rarely. A strange way that we celebrate that time, is going to a Pumpkin fest and enjoying everything they got to offer.” 

According to bountifulacres.com the Harvest season is associated with abundance and joy. It celebrates the many hard months of work that farmers have put in to grow their crop into healthy nutrients filled food.  Harvest season is a great and fun way to start off autumn.