If you’ve ever asked, “What time is the Strawberry Moon?” you’re not alone. This year, the Strawberry Moon captured global attention as it appeared strikingly low in the sky—a phenomenon not seen so dramatically for nearly two decades. The 2025 Strawberry Moon reached its peak at 3:44 A.M. Eastern Time on June 11, but the best time to catch its amber glow was actually the night before, as it rose at dusk on June 10. For many, this was a once-in-a-generation chance to witness the lowest full moon until 2043.
The Strawberry Moon is named for the ripening of wild strawberries in North America, a tradition rooted in the practices of Indigenous tribes like the Algonquin, Ojibwe, Dakota, and Lakota. While the moon doesn’t actually turn pink or red, its low position in the sky as it rises often gives it a warm, red-orange hue—especially when seen just above the horizon.
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Why the 2025 Strawberry Moon Was Special
This year’s Strawberry Moon was more than just a full moon; it was a record-breaking celestial event. The moon’s path through the sky is governed by a slow-moving cycle called the major lunar standstill, or lunistice. Every 18.6 years, the moon reaches its most extreme north and south points in the sky. In 2025, the Strawberry Moon appeared lower than it has for almost 20 years, and it won’t reach such an extreme low again until 2043.
Astronomy enthusiasts and casual sky-watchers alike flocked to open fields, hills, and coastlines on June 10 to catch the moonrise. The moon’s low angle caused its light to scatter through more of Earth’s atmosphere, enhancing its amber or orange tint. This effect, combined with clear skies forecasted for much of the United States, made for unforgettable viewing conditions.
The Strawberry Moon’s timing was also notable. While it officially reached its fullest phase in the early hours of June 11, the best visual experience was during moonrise on June 10. This is because the moon appears largest and most colorful when it’s close to the horizon, due to an optical illusion known as the “moon illusion.”
How to Make the Most of the Strawberry Moon
If you missed the 2025 Strawberry Moon, don’t worry—you’ll still have plenty of full moons to enjoy. But to truly savor the experience next time, here are some tips based on this year’s event:
- Choose the Right Location: Find a spot with a clear, unobstructed view of the southeastern horizon. Coastal areas, open fields, or hilltops are ideal.
- Time Your Viewing: The best time to see the Strawberry Moon is just after sunset as it rises. Use a moonrise calculator to pinpoint the exact time for your location.
- Watch for Color Changes: The moon often appears red or orange when it’s low in the sky, thanks to atmospheric scattering. This effect is especially pronounced during a major lunar standstill.
- Check the Weather: Clear skies are essential for the best views. This year, most of the U.S. enjoyed favorable conditions, but cloudy regions missed out on the full spectacle.
The Strawberry Moon is not just a visual treat; it’s a cultural touchstone. Its name reflects the rhythms of nature and the traditions of Indigenous peoples. While modern calendars have their own names for each full moon, the Strawberry Moon remains one of the most evocative, marking the transition from spring to summer.
The Science Behind the Strawberry Moon’s Low Path
The 2025 Strawberry Moon’s unusually low trajectory was due to the major lunar standstill. This phenomenon occurs when the moon’s orbit is tilted at its most extreme angle relative to the Earth’s equator. During this period, the moon’s rise and set points along the horizon are farthest apart, and the moon spends more time near the southern horizon for observers in the Northern Hemisphere.
This cycle lasts about two years, but the very lowest full moon—like the one this June—is a highlight. The last time the Strawberry Moon was this low was in the mid-2000s, and the next won’t be until 2043. For sky-watchers, this makes the 2025 event a must-see.
The moon’s low position also means it can appear larger and more colorful than usual, especially when viewed against cityscapes or natural landscapes. In previous years, photographers have captured the Strawberry Moon rising behind landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, creating iconic images.
What’s Next for Full Moon Enthusiasts?
While the Strawberry Moon has passed for 2025, there are still plenty of full moons to look forward to. Here’s a quick look at the rest of this year’s full moons:
| Date | Full Moon Name |
|---|---|
| July 10 | Buck Moon |
| August 9 | Sturgeon Moon |
| September 7 | Harvest Moon |
| October 6 | Hunter’s Moon |
| November 5 | Beaver Moon |
| December 4 | Cold Moon |
Each full moon has its own unique name and traditions, but none are quite as dramatic as the Strawberry Moon during a major lunar standstill. Mark your calendars for the next one in 2043—or enjoy the regular monthly full moons until then.
If you want to stay ahead of the next big celestial event, sign up for a moonrise alert or join a local astronomy club. Don’t miss your chance to see the night sky at its most magical.