The Moon has long been a source of wonder, and across cultures, its phases have been used to mark the passage of time. The names given to the full moons of each month reflect nature, agriculture, and the ancestral practices of different cultures. Many of these names, particularly prevalent in North America, stem from Indigenous cultures and have been integrated into modern calendars. Below, we explore the captivating names of the full moons associated with each month of the year, revealing their meanings and cultural significance.

January: Wolf Moon

January’s full moon is famously called the Wolf Moon, a name that harkens back to the howling of hungry wolves during harsh winter months. Native American tribes also referred to it as the Cold Moon and Center Moon due to the stark, midwinter conditions. This name embodies the deep connection between nature’s rhythms and survival.

February: Snow Moon

February’s full moon is aptly named the Snow Moon, as this month often brings heavy snowfall in many regions. Some tribes referred to it as the Hunger Moon due to the scarcity of food available during this harsh period, while others called it the Bear Moon, marking the time when bear cubs begin to emerge.

March: Worm Moon

The Worm Moon of March signals the arrival of spring, as earthworms return to the thawing soil, indicating warmer weather. Also known as the Crow Moon, this name reflects the return of crows, and it has variations such as Chaste Moon and Sugar Moon, related to the tapping of maple trees.

April: Pink Moon

April is associated with the Pink Moon, named after the early blooming wildflower, moss phlox. Other names include Budding Moon and Egg Moon, which highlight the reviving and blossoming nature of spring. This moon symbolizes renewal and growth.

May: Flower Moon

The Flower Moon is celebrated in May as flowers burst into bloom. It represents the full vibrancy of spring. Alternative names include Milk Moon and Planting Moon, marking the time for planting crops and the rich biodiversity emerging from winter’s dormancy.

June: Strawberry Moon

As strawberries ripen, June’s full moon is aptly named the Strawberry Moon. This moon also goes by the Hot Moon, indicating the summer heat. It’s significant for many cultures as a fruitful time, celebrated with harvesting.

July: Buck Moon

July’s full moon, known as the Buck Moon, references the time when male deer begin to regrow their antlers. It is sometimes called the Thunder Moon because of the summer storms prevalent in this month, reflecting the intensity of nature during this season.

August: Sturgeon Moon

In August, the Sturgeon Moon takes center stage, named after the plentiful sturgeon fish found in North America’s lakes during this time. It’s also referred to as the Grain Moon or Green Corn Moon, highlighting agricultural cycles and cultural practices surrounding harvest.

September: Corn Moon

September’s full moon, often referred to as the Corn Moon, aligns with the harvest of corn, a staple crop for many Indigenous peoples. In some years, it may coincide with the Harvest Moon, the full moon closest to the autumnal equinox, providing ample light for late-night harvesting.

October: Hunter’s Moon

As the harvest season wraps up, October brings the Hunter’s Moon, a prime time for hunting and storing provisions for winter. Also known as the Travel Moon, this name alludes to the necessity of movement during cooler months and the practical need for food.

November: Beaver Moon

The Beaver Moon graces November, reflecting both the activity of beavers preparing for winter and the traditional practice of trapping them for fur. It is also recognized as the Frost Moon, symbolizing the onset of winter’s chill.

December: Cold Moon

Finally, December features the Cold Moon, marking the cold and long nights associated with winter. Alternative names include the Long Night Moon, emphasizing the extended hours of darkness experienced during this time of year.

These lunar names carry rich histories, echoing communal experiences and natural phenomena observed by countless generations. They not only help us mark the months but also remind us of our deep-rooted connections to the natural world. As we look up at the Moon, we can reflect on these timeless traditions and the cycles they symbolize, bridging past and present in our celebration of time.