Traditional Moon Names

Why is it called the Wolf Moon?

The name comes from the belief that wolves were more likely to be heard howling during the cold, snowy nights of January, a sound that became deeply associated with this full moon.

What is its spiritual meaning?

The Wolf Moon is seen as a powerful time for self-reflection, setting intentions for the new year, and strengthening community bonds. It encourages connecting with your primal instincts and inner wisdom.

Why is it called the Snow Moon?

It is named the Snow Moon because February is typically the month with the heaviest snowfall in North America, covering the landscape in a blanket of white.

What is the spiritual meaning of the Snow Moon?

The Snow Moon is often seen as a time for purification and renewal. It represents a period of transition, bridging the quiet of deep winter with the promise of new life in spring. Many use this time for self-reflection and setting intentions for future growth.

Why the name Worm Moon?

The name comes from Native American tribes who observed that as temperatures rise in March, earthworms begin to emerge from the soil, a true sign that spring has arrived.

What does the Worm Moon symbolize?

It symbolizes rebirth, growth, and new beginnings. Just as the worms emerge from the earth, this moon encourages us to emerge from our winter introspection and plant the seeds for our goals.

Will the Pink Moon actually be pink?

No. The name comes from the early spring blooming of a pink wildflower, wild ground phlox, not the color of the moon itself. The moon may have a golden hue near the horizon, but not pink.

What is the significance of the Pink Moon?

It represents a time of renewal, growth, and the blossoming of new ideas and intentions. It aligns with the explosion of life in the natural world during spring.

Where does the name Flower Moon come from?

The name is attributed to the Algonquin peoples, who recognized that the full moon in May coincided with the time when flowers are abundant and in full bloom.

What is the spiritual meaning of the Flower Moon?

It symbolizes fertility, passion, and creativity. It is a time to celebrate growth, both in the natural world and in our own lives, and to nurture the projects and relationships we value.

Why is it called the Strawberry Moon?

The name comes from the Algonquin tribes, who knew this full moon as the signal to gather ripening wild strawberries.

Is this moon also called the Honey Moon?

Yes, it is sometimes called the Honey Moon in Europe, possibly because June was a traditional month for weddings, and this moon is associated with love, sweetness, and prosperity.

Why is it named after bucks?

The name comes from the Algonquin tradition of observing that male deer, or bucks, are in a stage of rapid antler growth during July.

What is the energy of the Buck Moon?

The Buck Moon is associated with strength, ambition, and forward momentum. It is a time to focus on personal growth and to take action on your goals with confidence and determination.

Why the name Sturgeon Moon?

It was named by Native American tribes for whom the sturgeon fish was a vital food source, and they were most readily caught during this late summer period.

What does the Sturgeon Moon represent?

It represents gratitude for the abundance of nature, perseverance, and the importance of community. It is a time to appreciate the fruits of the season and to share them with others.

Why is it called the Corn Moon?

The name is attributed to Native American tribes who relied on their corn harvest to sustain them through the winter. This moon signaled that the corn was ready to be gathered.

How is it different from the Harvest Moon?

While both are related to harvest, the Corn Moon is specifically tied to the corn crop. The Harvest Moon is the full moon closest to the Autumn Equinox and can occur in September or October.

What makes the Harvest Moon special?

The Harvest Moon is unique because for several nights in a row, the moonrise occurs very close to the time of sunset. This provides a prolonged period of bright moonlight, which was historically crucial for farmers.

Can the Harvest Moon be in October?

Yes. The Harvest Moon is defined as the full moon closest to the Autumn Equinox (around September 22). Most years it falls in September, but about once every three years, it occurs in early October.

Why is it called the Hunter's Moon?

After the harvest, the fields were clear, making it easier to spot game. The bright light of this full moon gave hunters an advantage in their efforts to procure meat for the coming winter.

Is this moon a signal for winter?

Yes, the Hunter's Moon is a clear signal to prepare for the colder months. It represents a time of community effort and securing resources before winter sets in.

Where does the name Beaver Moon come from?

The name is attributed to both Native American and colonial American traditions, marking the time when beavers finalize their winter lodges and when trappers would hunt them for their thick pelts.

What is the theme of the Beaver Moon?

The central theme is preparation and industry. It encourages us to secure our own "dams" for the winter, ensuring we have the material, emotional, and spiritual resources to be safe and comfortable.

Why is it called the Cold Moon?

The name is a straightforward and apt description of the harsh, cold weather that settles in during December in the Northern Hemisphere.

What is the Long Night Moon?

This is another name for the Cold Moon because it is the full moon closest to the winter solstice (around December 21), which is the longest night of the year. It symbolizes a turning point towards the return of the light.

What makes a moon a "Blue Moon"?

There are two common definitions: it can be the third of four full moons in a single season (a seasonal Blue Moon), or the second full moon to occur in the same calendar month (a monthly Blue Moon).

Is the moon actually blue?

No, the name has nothing to do with its color. The moon only appears blue under very rare atmospheric conditions, such as after a volcanic eruption, which is unrelated to the term "Blue Moon".