What the Full Moon names mean
The names come from North American seasonal traditions and were popularized by farmers’ almanacs. The Wolf Moon of January recalls hungry wolves howling in midwinter; the Snow Moon of February the heaviest snows. March’s Worm Moon marks thawing soil, April’s Pink Moon early wildflowers, and May’s Flower Moon full bloom. June brings the Strawberry Moon, July the Buck Moon, when deer grow new antlers, and August the Sturgeon Moon. The Harvest Moon is the Full Moon closest to the September equinox, followed by the Hunter’s Moon; then come the Beaver Moon of November and the Cold Moon of December. A second Full Moon in one calendar month is popularly called a Blue Moon.
Full Moon traditions
- Close a chapter. The Full Moon is the peak of the lunar cycle, a natural moment to review what began at the New Moon.
- Let go. A popular ritual is to write down what you want to release and then tear up the paper.
- Pull a card. Many people draw one tarot card at the Full Moon as a summary of the month. Try the card of the day or a three-card spread.
- Rest well. If you sleep lightly around the Full Moon, darken the bedroom and put your phone away earlier.
See today’s phase on Moon phase today.
Frequently asked questions
When is the next Full Moon?
The next Full Moon is the Hunter’s Moon on Sunday, October 25, 2026 (Eastern Time), in Taurus.
How many Full Moons are there in a year?
Usually twelve, because a full lunar cycle lasts about 29.5 days. Every two to three years there are thirteen, and a second Full Moon in the same calendar month is popularly called a Blue Moon.
Where do the Full Moon names come from?
Names such as Wolf Moon, Strawberry Moon and Hunter’s Moon come from North American seasonal traditions popularized by farmers’ almanacs. They describe what was happening in nature at that time of year.
What is the Harvest Moon?
The Harvest Moon is the Full Moon closest to the September equinox. It can fall in September or early October, and the Full Moon after it is called the Hunter’s Moon.