Skygazers, rejoice: there’s a spectacle around the corner.
On June 29, the Strawberry Moon will light up the night sky, marking the first full moon of the summer. Despite its delicious name, the moon won’t actually appear pink or red, but it will still be a stunning sight to behold. Whether you’re an avid stargazer or simply looking for an excuse to spend some time outdoors, here’s everything you need to know about when and how to see June’s Strawberry Moon.
What is a Strawberry Moon?
June’s full moon is known as the Strawberry Moon, a name that has nothing to do with its color. The nickname comes from the Algonquin people, who used it to mark the brief strawberry harvest season that arrives each year in early summer, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
Despite its name, the Strawberry Moon doesn’t actually appear pink or red. Like other full moon names, it’s a seasonal reference tied to natural events occurring at that time of year. The tradition reflects how many Indigenous communities and early settlers tracked the passing of the months by observing changes in the landscape and seasonal harvests.
What does the Strawberry Moon mean?
The full moon also represents a seasonal turning point. Following the Flower Moon‘s celebration of spring blooms, the Strawberry Moon symbolizes the rewards of the growing season, when gardens, fields, and forests begin bearing their first harvests and summer officially takes hold.
When to see the strawberry moon?
The strawberry moon will appear on June 29, 2026 and will reach peak illumination at 7:56 p.m. EDT. However, depending on your time zone, you might catch the best view earlier.
You can see the best times to view the strawberry moon below, according to your time zone:
- Eastern Time (EDT): 7:56 p.m.
- Central Daylight Time (CDT): 6:56 p.m.
- Mountain Daylight Time (MDT): 5:56 p.m.
- Pacific Daylight Time (PDT): 4:56 p.m.
- Alaska Daylight Time (AKDT): 3:56 p.m.
- Hawaiian Standard Time (HST): 1:56 p.m.
Post courtesy of msn.com.
