“When Sol doth set on equinox’s eve,
And shadows dance ‘neath Luna’s gentle weave,
Goblins gather, hearts ablaze,
For the Turning’s chase, in moonlit haze.
Seek ye Mycelium, silver and fair,
A treasure most rare, beyond compare.
Tricks and mirth fill the night’s embrace,
As goblins frolic, in wild, joyous space.”

From “Songs of the Turning” by Old Gnarltooth

Greetings, fellow goblins and curious humans! Merkle here, your guide to the whimsical world of Goblin Living. As the leaves begin to paint the world in hues of gold and crimson, and a crispness whispers through the air, we goblins prepare for a time of ancient celebration and playful revelry – The Turning.

The Turning marks the autumn equinox, a sacred moment when day and night stand in perfect equilibrium, a fleeting pause before the embrace of winter’s long shadow. We goblins honor this celestial dance with a festival that echoes through the ages, a tapestry woven from time-honored traditions and our own unique goblin spirit. We call it the “Autumnal Revel,” a lively gathering filled with feasting, music, and a touch of mischievous delight.

Just like you humans, we goblins give thanks for the abundance of the harvest season. Our tables overflow with foraged mushrooms, plump berries, and crisp nuts, each bite a testament to the earth’s generosity. We swap stories of our gathering adventures, laughter echoing through the crisp autumn air. As the days grow shorter, we also turn our attention to preparing for the winter’s chill. Firewood is stacked high, cellars are filled with preserved foods, and cozy nooks are made even more inviting with blankets and furs.

But the true magic of the Turning unfolds as darkness descends on the eve of the equinox. Under the watchful gaze of the full moon, goblins of all ages, myself included, eagerly don our most whimsical costumes and masks. We light our lanterns, their soft glow guiding us into the depths of the Whispering Woods. The air crackles with anticipation as we embark on the legendary “Wild Wander.”

The Wild Wander is a night of exhilarating exploration and playful competition. We traverse the moonlit trails, our senses heightened, each of us seeking our own unique treasure.  For the Forest Folk, it’s the elusive Moonbeam Mushrooms, their silvery caps shimmering in the moonlight. Mountain Goblins scale cliffs in search of rare mountain crystals, while Cave Goblins delve into hidden caverns for glowing cave pearls. Urban Goblins scour the city’s nooks and crannies for forgotten trinkets, and Rainbow Goblins seek the vibrant feathers of fantastical birds.

The forest comes alive with the sounds of rustling leaves, excited whispers, and the occasional triumphant whoop. We try to outsmart each other, snatching treasures from unsuspecting hands and adding to our own growing hoard. It’s a night of laughter, camaraderie, and a touch of mischievous competition.

As dawn paints the sky with the first hues of sunrise, the hunt comes to an end. We gather once more, our baskets overflowing with treasures, our hearts full of joy and laughter. The goblin with the most prized possessions is crowned the Turning King or Queen, their reign lasting until the next equinox.

The Turning is a time of magic and transformation, a celebration of the natural world and the bonds that tie us together. Whether you’re a goblin or a human, I encourage you to embrace the spirit of the season. Gather with loved ones, express your gratitude, and let a little mischief into your heart.

How do you celebrate the changing of the seasons? Share your traditions in the comments below!

Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll share tips and ideas on how to create your own Turning celebration, no matter where you roam!