More so than years past, I've been hearing loads of chit chat about this natural event and the things folks are doing to celebrate the one of two days out of the year where we, as earthlings, witness roughly the same amount of daylight as we do night. I too plan on attending one or two equinox potlucks, which got me to thinking, what exactly does one bring to such an event? After foraging the depths of webiverse I came up with this handful of recipes that I think capture autumn's essence—the spirt of fall as I see it.

Nothing soothes the soul quite like homemade shepherd's pie, and when said pie just happens to be vegan, you can't help but dive in fork first. The Unethical Vegan may have reasons in mind other than animal rights, but it doesn't stop her Shepherd's Pie for being a seasonal treat for the stomach and the spirit.

If you could sip fall through a straw, I bet it wouldn't taste too different than this Apple Pie Float from the creative folks of Our Best Bites. Raise a glass of this ginger ale and cider-based beverage this equinox for a sweet fall treat that doesn't require slaving over a hot stove.

A little spice is sure to warm you up as the nights grow colder and the days get shorter. This mouthwatering Chili recipe from Aggie's Kitchen is a great way to transition into fall. With a bowl of hot, corn-topped chili waiting for you on the other end of the seasonal change, who wouldn't be excited for fall?

On my quest for a traditional butternut squash soup, I stumbled upon this delightful recipe from the inventive kitchen of Little Big. This recipe for Butternut Shiitake Risotto is not only easy on the eyes, but gentle on the pocket as well. This resourceful recipe uses the squash to thicken the risotto as well as to add a bit of crunch with oven-baked and seasoned squash chips. If this meal doesn't ooze fall, then I don't know what does.