The name “Strawberry Moon” might make one think of visions of a rosy-hued lunar Moon, but it’s not about color.
Instead of the rosy color of strawberry Moon, it pays tribute to the wild strawberries that ripen during early summer. It is a time when Native American tribes traditionally harvested these juicy strawberries. Other nicknames for this full moon are the Flower Moon, Hot Moon, and Mead Moon.
The celestial stage is set for a fascinating lunar show, the Strawberry Moon. On June 21, 2024, stargazers across the globe will witness this full strawberry moon in all its glory. Let’s explore the origin, significance, tradition, and astronomical details of this amazing celestial event.
Origin & Names of Strawberry Moon
- Influence of Native American
As we discussed above, Native American tribes associated the Strawberry Moon with the ripening of wild strawberries. These luscious fruits were eagerly gathered during this month.
Other names for Strawberry Moon include Berries Ripen Moon, Green Corn Moon, and Hot Moon.
- English and Celtic Names
In English folklore, it’s also known as the Flower Moon and Planting Moon. The Celtic names for Strawberry Moon are Horse Moon, Dyan Moon, and Rose Moon. According to sources the Anglo-Saxon name “Mead Moon” to this time, as it coincided with meadow mowing.
- A Rare Summer Solstice Alignment
Approximately every 20 years, the Strawberry Moon meets with the summer solstice, which is normally on June 20, 21, or 22. This rare alignment adds to its charming look.
When and Where to Look?
Be ready On June 21, 2024, at 6:07 PM (local time in Seattle), the Strawberry Moon will reach its peak brightness. If you’re elsewhere in the world, adjust your clocks accordingly.
In Coordinated Universal Time (UTC), it graces our skies on June 22 at 1:07 UTC. From Greenland to Cape Verde, across Eurasia, Africa, and Australia, stargazers will witness this lunar marvel.
The astronomical sign of this Strawberry Moon graces the sign of Capricorn. For the next appearance mark your calendars for June 11, 2025, when the Strawberry Moon returns in Sagittarius.
Spiritual Significance
The Strawberry Moon invites introspection and growth. As it aligns with practical Capricorn, consider setting intentions related to stability, ambition, and perseverance.
Use this potent energy for personal and spiritual development. Reflect on your goals and take steps toward fruition.
Astronomical Highlights
Beyond this celestial marvel, the Strawberry Moon brings celestial companions. Keep an eye out for:
- Jupiter and Mars: These planets will join the moon in its cosmic dance.
- Earth’s Orbit Shift: As our planet orbits the sun, the moon’s position changes subtly—observe this celestial waltz.
- Deneb: A distant star in the constellation Cygnus, adding its twinkle to the night.
What makes “Mead Moon”? Around this period, mead, a beverage made with honey, was ready to be harvested in medieval Europe. There may be a connection between this lovely lunar phase and the custom of referring to the first month of marriage as the “honeymoon.”
That means that on June 21, go outside, look up, and enjoy the Strawberry Moon. Whether you’re under a starry sky somewhere else or in the bustling city of Washington, DC, let its beauty inspire you.
