August is the eighth month of the year in the Gregorian calendar and has 31 days. As the last month of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, August is often associated with the end of vacation season and the impending start of school. Many cultures and traditions have symbols and activities that represent the eighth month.
Zodiac Sign
The zodiac sign for the majority of August is Leo, the lion. Leos are known for being passionate, loyal, and leadership qualities. The dates for Leo are July 23rd to August 22nd.
The zodiac symbol for Leo is a lion. Lions symbolize courage, strength, protectiveness and royalty. As the star sign of midsummer, the lion represents the heat of the summer sun and fieriness of the Dog Days of the month.
Birthstone
The birthstone for August is peridot. Peridot is a sparkling light green gemstone that symbolizes strength, power, and cleansing. Some believe it has healing properties that protect against nightmares and evil. Ancient Egyptians called peridot the “gem of the sun.”
The vivid green color of peridot represents the verdant growth of late summer. Peridot’s crystalline structure emits a warm, friendly energy that has come to symbolize the month of August.
Flowers and Plants
The two main flowers for August are the gladiolus and the poppy. Gladiolus symbolize strength of character, generosity, and moral integrity. Their tall spikes of brightly colored summer blooms evoke the lively spirit of August.
Poppies denote pleasure, imagination, and consolation. Their vivid red hues remind us of the transition from summer’s vibrant growth into autumn’s more subdued tones.
For late summer produce, August is represented by corn, squash, tomatoes, peaches, and berries. The abundance of fresh vegetables and fruits signify the fulfillment of summer’s growth and vibrancy.
Holidays and Events
There are many holidays, events, and observances in August. Some of the most notable include:
- International Friendship Day – August 1st
- International Lefthanders Day – August 13th
- Independence Day in many countries like India, Pakistan, North Korea, Indonesia
- National Watermelon Day in the US – August 3rd
- Perseid Meteor Shower – August 10-13th
- Back to School Sales
- Many outdoor music and cultural festivals
These celebrations represent the winding down of summer activities, time with friends, and preparing for changes that come with autumn. The Perseid meteor shower in mid-August also reminds us that summer is coming to a close.
Colors
The colors that represent August are primarily shades of green, yellow, and orange. These colors evoke the warm hues of late summer:
- Limes and forest greens symbolize the lushness of August
- Golden yellows and oranges represent the sun and harvest
- Peridot greens connect to August’s birthstone
- Bright pops like neon orange signify the waning days of summer fun
Symbols and Icons
Some of the main symbols and icons associated with August include:
- Sunflowers – Representing the sunny warmth of August
- Bees – Symbolizing the busy work before winter
- Peaches – For the harvest season
- Seaside and palm trees – Signifying the last of summer vacation
- Backpacks and school supplies – Indicating going back to school
- Corn and grains – For the harvest time
- Swimming and sailing – Late summer activities
- Sun and rays – The strong summer sun
August is often depicted with summery images that remind us of the month’s winding down while still celebrating the warmer weather and freedom of the season.
Ancient and Cultural Associations
In Ancient Rome, August was seen as a lucky month associated with health and fortune. The month was named after Augustus Caesar, the founder and first emperor of the Roman Empire. Augustus chose this month’s name since it coincided with his most glorious military victories.
In the ancient Celtic cultures of Ireland, Scotland, and Great Britain, August was called Lúnasa. The Lúnasa festival on August 1st marked the harvest season. Celebrations featured sports, matchmaking, and storytelling competitions.
In Greek mythology, the month was associated with Ceres, the goddess of agriculture. August festivals focused on blessing the harvest. The ancient Greeks also considered August 29-30 lucky days, called the days of the new moon.
In Chinese astrology, those born in August fall under the zodiac sign Leo. Leos are believed to be ambitious, generous, loyal, and have a strong sense of justice. In Mandarin, August is called Bā yuè meaning “August Month.”
August in the Southern Hemisphere
As August falls during the summer in the Northern Hemisphere, it aligns with winter in the Southern Hemisphere. So the cultural associations with August differ across the equator.
In places like Australia, August signifies the coldest part of winter. Some symbols and activities associated with an August winter include:
- Snowflakes and frost
- Warm fires and heaters
- Hot cocoa, soups, and stews
- Skiing, snowboarding, and winter sports
- Hibernation and migration patterns
While the Northern Hemisphere winds down its summer season, those south of the equator hunker down for the chill of winter during August.
Conclusion
August stands as the transition month between the warmth of summer and autumn’s cooler temperatures. The eighth month resonates with colors, symbols, and activities associated with the end of vacation season, harvest time, and going back to school. August also contains several holidays and meteorological events that make it a memorable month across cultures worldwide.
