Strawberry Moon Explained – Dates, Meaning & How to Spot It
Ever heard someone mention a "Strawberry Moon" and wondered what they were talking about? It’s not a new fruit‑flavoured dessert – it’s a real lunar event that pops up every June. Below you’ll find the basics, the dates for 2025‑2026, and easy ways to catch it without fancy gear.
When Does the Strawberry Moon Appear?
The name comes from Native American calendars that linked each full moon to the season’s activities. June’s full moon was called the Strawberry Moon because that’s when wild strawberries ripened in the north. In 2025 the Strawberry Moon will be full on June 5, and in 2026 it lands on June 24. If you’re planning a night out, mark those dates on your phone.
Full moons happen about every 29.5 days, so the next one after June’s will be the “Buck Moon” in July. Knowing the cycle helps you plan trips to dark‑sky spots without missing the main event.
How to Spot the Strawberry Moon
First, find a place with minimal street lights. Even a suburban backyard can work if you turn off indoor lights and wait a few minutes for your eyes to adjust. The Moon will look bigger and brighter than usual because it’s at its closest point to Earth (called perigee) around the same time.
Look for a slightly orange‑tinted glow – that’s the hallmark of a June full moon. The tint isn’t actually strawberry‑red; it’s just a subtle warmth caused by the atmosphere. If you have a pair of binoculars, you can spot the moon’s craters and the dark patches known as maria.
Want to make it a social event? Invite friends for a night‑time picnic. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and perhaps a playlist of summer songs. The Strawberry Moon is a great backdrop for photos, so charge your phone or camera beforehand.
If you’re curious about the science, the Moon’s brightness is measured in magnitudes. During a full moon it’s about –12.7, bright enough to read a newspaper outdoors. That level of light can affect nocturnal wildlife, so many nature photographers use the event to capture animals that are active at night.
Finally, keep an eye on weather forecasts. A clear sky is key; clouds can hide the Moon entirely. A quick check on a weather app the morning of the full moon will tell you if you need a backup indoor plan.
Whether you’re a casual stargazer or a backyard astronomer, the Strawberry Moon offers a simple, free way to connect with the night sky. Mark the date, find a dark spot, and enjoy the glow. It’s a small reminder that the cosmos has its own calendar, and you’re invited to follow along.
