This year is flying by, and June is just around the corner. Before summer officially hits, there will be one last full moon of Spring, called the Strawberry Moon. 

What is a strawberry moon?

The name comes from the Native American Algonquian tribe and Ojibwe, Dakota, and Lakota who used it to track when wild strawberries were ripe enough to pick. Other Indigenous names include: Berries Ripen Moon,  Birth Moon, Green Corn Moon, Blooming Moon. 

In Europe, people called it the Mead Moon or Honey Moon, since June is the traditional wedding season. (that’s where “honeymoon” comes from), per Almanac. 

Unlike a blood moon, the Strawberry Moon won't change color. It will look like your usual big, bright, beautiful full moon. If you catch it right as it rises or sets, you might catch it with a golden or reddish hue near the horizon. So while it won't be red, it's still worth looking up at. 

When is the strawberry moon?

This year, the moon will peak early on Wednesday, June 11, at 3:44 a.m. ET. So either stay up late Tuesday night or catch it just before sunrise. This is the last full moon of spring. 

Summer officially starts on June 20 with the solstice. The Strawberry Moon and summer solstice only line up every 20 years or so, and the next time it will happen is in 2062.

What you can do 

Given June is considered a time of abundance with fruits ripening, flowers blooming, longer days, and warmer weather, it's also the perfect time for you to manifest. 

If you're a little spiritual, do a full moon ritual: For the Strawberry Moon, light a candle, eat a fresh strawberry, and reflect on what’s ripening in your life. Write down something you’re ready to release and safely burn or tear it up. Then, thank the moon and say, “I am open, I am grateful, I am enough.”

What’s the best way to see it?

Just go outside. No telescope required. For the best view, head somewhere dark, away from city lights.