FULL MOON NAMES AND MEANINGS

The Takes
May 19
4 min read

Updated: 54 minutes ago

Ever wondered why we call it a Wolf Moon, Strawberry Moon, or Hunter’s Moon? Each month’s full moon has a unique name rooted in Native American tradition, seasonal changes, and even animal behavior. These names return year after year. In this easy-to-follow guide, writer Jorja takes you through the 12 full moons of the year, exploring the origins, meanings, and folklore behind each one. From January’s chilly howls to December’s icy glow, discover why these moons were named the way they were, and why they still matter today.

By Jorja - Bella Furness

Discovering the Significance of Each Full Moon

The moon changes constantly. With a new moon every month, it can be hard to keep track. While there are many different moons, such as blood moons, some occur every month and return year after year. If you're curious about why these moons have such strange names, I recommend you stay until the end.

Silhouette of a wolf howling at a large, bright full moon against a starry night sky. Eerie and quiet ambiance.

JANUARY: Full Wolf Moon

January brings us the Full Wolf Moon, which occurred on January 13th this year. This name comes from Native Americans and Europeans during the medieval period. People heard the wolf's howls during the cold months. At that time of the year, food was scarce, so wolves would howl as they searched for it.

Snowflake overlay on a full moon set against a dark, starry sky, creating a serene and magical winter night scene.

FEBRUARY: Full Snow Moon

The Full Snow Moon takes place in February. It is also known as the Hungry Moon by some North American tribes. February is a hard month to find food, which is why they named it that. Another charming name is the Bear Moon, as bear cubs are born during this time. Yet, it is mostly known as the Snow Moon due to the heavy snowfall typical of February.

Cartoon earthworms float in front of a large yellow moon against a dark starry sky. The worms are pink with simple, cheerful faces.

MARCH: Full Worm Moon

March gives us the Full Worm Moon, which corresponds to when worms start to emerge from the ground. It has no other names, but that uniqueness adds to its charm. Spring symbolizes renewal, and the sight of worms indicates the earth waking up from winter. This moon appeared on March 12th this year.

Pink moon against a dark sky with scattered small stars. Two larger stars shine brightly, creating a calm nighttime atmosphere.

APRIL: Full Pink Moon

The Full Pink Moon arrived on April 13th this year. It is named for spring when flowers like the phlox subulata begin to bloom. This plant is known by several names, including creeping phlox, moss phlox, and mountain phlox. Seeing this beautiful flower and the moon is a sight worth celebrating.

Three colorful flowers—pink, yellow, white—on green stems over a large, textured moon against a dark, starry sky. Dreamy and serene.

MAY: Full Flower Moon

In May, we celebrate the Full Flower Moon, which took place on May 12th this year. Like the Full Pink Moon, this moon also symbolizes blooming flowers. However, it doesn't refer to one specific flower but rather flowers in general. Imagine waking up to a lovely moon and freshly bloomed flowers—truly a jaw-dropping experience!

A large red strawberry with green leaves floats in a dark starry sky, creating a whimsical, surreal mood.

JUNE: Full Strawberry Moon

The Full Strawberry Moon occurs in June. This year, it will be visible on June 11th. Native American tribes named it after strawberries, which start ripening in this month. It's the perfect time for summer treats like strawberry ice cream, making the moon even more delightful.

Silhouette of deer antlers against a large orange moon with a dark starry sky. Minimalistic design with a serene mood.

JULY: The Full Buck Moon

July features the Full Buck Moon, which shines on July 10th this year. This moon is named for male deer, or bucks, whose antlers are fully visible at this time of year. After losing their old antlers in spring, new ones appear. If you find antlers in the woods, remember: it’s a natural process.

Fish encircles a golden full moon against a dark starry sky. Blue scales contrast with the moon's warm hue, creating a mystical vibe.

AUGUST: Full Sturgeon Moon

August greets us with the Full Sturgeon Moon on August 9th. This fish, commonly found in North American lakes, becomes more abundant during this month. Fishermen see great success in catching sturgeons now, making it a lucky month for angling enthusiasts.

Gold patterned circle with ovals on a dark background, resembling a planet or celestial body. Small golden stars scattered around.

SEPTEMBER: Full Corn Moon

The Full Corn Moon, which took place on September 7th, is named for the bountiful harvest of crops, especially corn. This moon is commonly associated with the good fortune farmers receive during their harvest. It has other names like the “Autumn Moon,” “Falling Leaves Moon,” and “Wine Moon,” reflecting the season's changes.

Silhouette of archer drawing a bow against a large yellow moon. Dark night sky with scattered stars. Calm and focused mood.

OCTOBER: Full Hunter’s Moon

The Full Hunter’s Moon appears on October 7th this year. In times gone by, hunting was essential for survival. This name symbolizes a period when communities increased hunting to gather food supplies for winter. It highlights the importance of preparation and family.

Illustration of a brown beaver against a large yellow moon backdrop. Night sky with small stars, creating a calm and serene mood.

NOVEMBER: Full Beaver Moon

The Full Beaver Moon shines on November 5th, coinciding with Remembrance Day. There are two main stories linked to this moon. One tale is about beavers being more active as they build winter dams. The other concerns Native Americans setting traps for beavers as winter approached.

Blue moon with icicles against a dark starry sky, evoking a serene, cold atmosphere. Stars twinkle around the moon. No text.

DECEMBER: The Full Cold Moon

Finally, December brings us the Full Cold Moon, which occurs on December 4th. The name is fitting, as it represents the coldest time of the year when temperatures plummet. As we reflect on the year, this moon reminds us of the cycle of seasons.

I hope you enjoyed learning about these fascinating moons. I also hope to inspire a few of you to celebrate the next coming moon!