When Is the Next Full Moon? A Guide to Dates, Times & Names

Introduction

Knowing when the next full moon will occur is about more than just marking a date on the calendar; it's an invitation to connect with a celestial rhythm that has guided humanity for millennia. Each full moon is a unique event with a traditional name and a story that links us to the seasons, history, and the natural world. From January's evocative Wolf Moon to September's vital Harvest Moon, these events have shaped agriculture, folklore, and navigation across cultures.

Whether you are an avid stargazer, a photographer planning the perfect shot, an angler tracking tides, or simply someone curious about the night sky, having an accurate schedule is essential. This guide is your go-to resource for upcoming lunar events, helping you stay prepared for every moment of peak illumination and appreciate the science and stories behind them.

Here, you will find a complete calendar of full moon dates, times, and the fascinating origins behind their names. Let's explore the celestial schedule for the year ahead and rediscover our timeless connection to the cosmos.

Upcoming Full Moons: A Complete Calendar

Planning for this monthly celestial spectacle is simple with a reliable schedule. Below is a comprehensive full moon calendar listing the dates, peak illumination times, and traditional names for each lunar event. Note that all times are listed in Eastern Time (ET); be sure to convert them to your local time zone to catch the moon at its brightest and most brilliant.

Full Moon Dates and Names for the Remainder of the Current Year

Here are the upcoming full moons for the rest of this year, providing a clear schedule for your stargazing and planning needs. Beyond observing, many people align their personal goals with these cycles, often consulting weekly horoscope predictions for zodiac signs for added insight.

• August 19: Sturgeon Moon (Supermoon)
• September 18: Harvest Moon (Supermoon, Partial Lunar Eclipse)
• October 17: Hunter's Moon (Supermoon)
• November 15: Beaver Moon (Supermoon)
• December 15: Cold Moon

Full Moon Calendar 2025

For those planning further ahead, here is the complete list of full moon dates and names for 2025. This schedule will help you track every full moon the year has to offer.

• January 13: Wolf Moon
• February 12: Snow Moon
• March 14: Worm Moon (Total Lunar Eclipse)
• April 12: Pink Moon
• May 12: Flower Moon
• June 11: Strawberry Moon
• July 10: Buck Moon
• August 9: Sturgeon Moon
• September 7: Harvest Moon (Partial Lunar Eclipse)
• October 7: Hunter's Moon
• November 5: Beaver Moon
• December 5: Cold Moon

With these dates and times in hand, you might be wondering about the origins of these evocative names. Understanding their history reveals a deep connection between the lunar cycle and life on Earth.

The Stories Behind Full Moon Names

The traditional full moon names used today have deep roots, primarily originating from Native American tribes and later adopted by colonial American settlers. These names were not merely poetic; they served as a practical calendar to track the seasons and guide essential activities like planting, hunting, and harvesting. Each name reflects a specific aspect of the natural world or the climate associated with that time of year.

Cultural Origins and Meanings

This naming system is a beautiful blend of careful observation and cultural tradition. While many popular names stem from the Algonquin tribes, similar lunar calendars exist in cultures worldwide, from Celtic to Chinese traditions, each reflecting their unique environment.

Here are a few examples of the stories behind the North American names:

• Wolf Moon (January): Named for the hungry wolf packs that would howl outside villages during the cold, deep snows of midwinter.
• Snow Moon (February): This name is straightforward, referring to the heavy snowfall that typically blankets North America in February, making hunting difficult.
• Worm Moon (March): As temperatures rise, earthworm casts begin to appear in the thawing soil, signaling the return of robins and the true start of spring, a season aligned with new beginnings, much like those explored in an Aries birthday guide.
• Strawberry Moon (June): This name marks the short but sweet season for harvesting wild strawberries, a sign of the abundance of early summer.

The Special Case of the Harvest Moon

Unlike other full moons tied to a specific month, the Harvest Moon is defined by its timing relative to the autumnal equinox (around September 22). It is the full moon that occurs closest to this date, which means it can fall in either September or October.

The astronomical reason for its special status is that around the time of the equinox, the moon rises only about 30 minutes later each night, compared to the usual 50-minute delay. This early evening moonlight provided farmers with crucial extra light to extend their harvesting hours, hence the name. The full moon immediately following the Harvest Moon is known as the Hunter's Moon, as the bright light helped hunters spot game preparing for winter.

Beyond these traditional names, certain full moons gain special status due to unique astronomical circumstances that create even more spectacular displays.

Special Lunar Events to Watch For

While every full moon is a noteworthy lunar event, some are particularly special. These occurrences are determined by the moon's position relative to the Earth and the sun, creating rare and stunning visual displays that have captivated observers for centuries.

What Is a Supermoon?

A Supermoon occurs when a full moon coincides with its perigee—the point in its elliptical orbit where it is closest to Earth. Because it is nearer to us, a Supermoon can appear up to 14% larger and 30% brighter than a full moon at its farthest point (apogee). While this difference can be subtle to the naked eye without a side-by-side comparison, it is a fantastic opportunity for photographers to capture a more dramatic and detailed lunar portrait.

The Famous "Blue Moon"

A Blue Moon has nothing to do with the moon's actual color. The term, which has given rise to the phrase "once in a blue moon," typically refers to one of two phenomena:

1. Monthly Blue Moon: This is the more modern definition—the second full moon occurring within a single calendar month. Because the lunar cycle is about 29.5 days long, this happens roughly every two to three years.
2. Seasonal Blue Moon: This is the traditional definition—the third full moon in an astronomical season that has four full moons instead of the usual three.

Understanding a Lunar Eclipse

A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth passes directly between the sun and the moon, casting its shadow onto the lunar surface. This alignment can only occur during a full moon. If the alignment is perfect, it results in a total lunar eclipse, during which the moon often takes on a reddish hue, earning it the nickname "Blood Moon." This eerie color is caused by sunlight filtering and refracting through Earth's atmosphere before reaching the moon. A partial lunar eclipse occurs when only part of the Earth's shadow covers the moon.

Knowing the science behind these events enhances their appreciation, but the true magic comes from experiencing their beauty firsthand.

How to Best View the Next Full Moon

To make the most of the next celestial spectacle, a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you are an amateur astronomer or just a curious observer, these tips will help you get the best and most memorable view.

Finding the Right Time and Location

For the most dramatic experience, try to watch the moon as it rises. This is when the "moon illusion" is strongest—a fascinating optical effect where the moon appears enormous as it hangs low on the horizon next to trees, buildings, or mountains. Check your local moonrise and moonset times to plan your viewing perfectly.

To get the best view, follow these simple steps:

• Find a Dark Sky: Move away from city lights to reduce light pollution. A park, a rural area, or even a rooftop with an unobstructed view can make a significant difference in clarity.
• Check the Weather: A clear sky is essential. Check the forecast for clouds and haze before you head out.
• Gain Some Elevation: A higher vantage point will give you a better view of the horizon, especially for catching the moonrise.
• Use Technology: Mobile apps like Star Walk or PhotoPills can help you pinpoint the exact time and location of the moonrise in your area.

Understanding Peak Illumination and Time Zones

The times listed in the full moon calendar refer to the moment of peak illumination, when the moon's face is 100% lit by the sun. However, to the naked eye, the moon will appear "full" for about a day before and after this exact moment, giving you a generous viewing window. To find out when to see the next full moon in your area, you must convert the listed time (e.g., in ET or UTC) to your local time zone.

Tips for Photography

Capturing a great photo of the full moon can be challenging but rewarding.

• Use a Tripod: A tripod is essential to keep your camera steady, especially for longer exposures, and to prevent blurry images.
• Use a Telephoto Lens: A longer lens (200mm or more) will help you fill the frame with the moon and capture its incredible surface details.
• Adjust Your Settings: Avoid your camera's automatic mode. Instead, switch to manual. A good starting point is an aperture of f/8 to f/11, a shutter speed around 1/125th of a second, and a low ISO of 100 or 200. Use manual focus to ensure the moon is perfectly sharp, and adjust from there to get the ideal exposure.

Conclusion

Understanding the full moon is about more than just tracking dates; it is about appreciating a celestial event rich with cultural, historical, and astronomical significance. From the agricultural wisdom embedded in names like the Harvest Moon to the orbital mechanics behind Supermoons and eclipses, each full moon offers a unique story that blends science with wonder. This guide equips you with the knowledge to transform a simple glance at the night sky into a more meaningful and informed experience, connecting you to the broader cosmic energy that influences everything from the tides to personal horoscopes.

Looking ahead, our connection to the moon continues to evolve, from inspiring art and mythology to guiding future space exploration. As you prepare to witness the next full moon, you are participating in a timeless ritual—a shared human experience that bridges generations and cultures. The real opportunity isn't just to see the moon but to connect with the natural rhythms of our cosmos. The next time a full moon graces the sky, step outside and observe not just an object, but a story—and find your own place within it.