June’s full moon has been lovingly called the “Strawberry Moon” for centuries, a moniker originating from Algonquin and other Native American tribes to signal that wild strawberries were ripe for harvest. The name doesn’t denote the moon’s hue (it often appears pale yellow or golden when low on the horizon), but rather serves as a celestial marker for a truly berry-licious time of year. As colonial settlers adopted these indigenous names into their calendars, June’s moon retained its fruity fame, occasionally also being referred to as the “Hot Moon,” “Rose Moon,” or “Mead Moon” in various European traditions.
In 2025, the Strawberry Moon reaches peak illumination on June 11 at 3:44 a.m. EDT (2:44 a.m. CDT, 1:44 a.m. MDT, 12:44 a.m. PDT). While that deep early-morning hour may have you reaching for extra coffee, rest assured: the moon will look practically full to the naked eye starting the evening of June 10, so you won’t need to lose too much beauty sleep to catch its radiant glow.
Why the Strawberry Moon Matters (Beyond the Berries)
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Seasonal Signpost: In pre-industrial agriculture, farmers relied on moon names to track planting, harvesting, and hunting cycles. The Strawberry Moon signaled that June-bearing strawberries were plump and ready for picking—an important source of fresh vitamins and a flavorful treat for early summer feasts.
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Astronomical Charm: Unlike a true “supermoon,” the 2025 Strawberry Moon isn’t at perigee (the point when the Moon is closest to Earth), but its low path in the June sky often makes it appear larger and more colorful (think bold oranges and yellows) because of atmospheric scattering when it’s near the horizon.
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Cultural Significance: Many tribes—like the Ojibwe (“Raspberry Moon”) and Creek (“Blackberry Moon”)—adapted names based on their local berry harvests, illustrating how different regions celebrated June’s bounty. Even today, hearing “Strawberry Moon” evokes a sense of community, summer potlucks, and that first juicy bite of fresh-plucked strawberries.
Whether you’re an amateur astronomer, a strawberry fan, or simply someone who appreciates a good excuse to be outside after sunset, the 2025 Strawberry Moon offers both nostalgia and wonder in one glowing orb.
When & Where to Look
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Prime Night: Although true full-phase occurs in the early pre-dawn of June 11, June 10 (after 9 p.m. local time) is your best bet for catching a “near-full” Strawberry Moon. By the time most of us have finished evening activities, the moon will already be hovering nearly full above the eastern horizon.
June 1: Waxing Crescent
June 11: Strawberry Moon
June 25: New Moon pic.twitter.com/YS5ht3dJD2— kouji (@yoyonofukuoka) May 30, 2025
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Time Zones:
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Eastern (EDT): 9 p.m. – 12 a.m. (June 10) for a near-full view; official peak at 3:44 a.m. (June 11).
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Central (CDT): 8 p.m. – 11 p.m. (June 10); peak at 2:44 a.m. (June 11).
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Mountain (MDT): 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. (June 10); peak at 1:44 a.m. (June 11).
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Pacific (PDT): 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. (June 10); peak at 12:44 a.m. (June 11).
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Location Tips:
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Dark-Sky Areas: Head to parks or reserves away from city lights (e.g., Cherry Springs State Park, PA, or Big Bend National Park, TX) to see the moon along with plenty of stars.
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Low-Horizon Views: Since June’s full moon travels a shallow arc early in the month, seek an unobstructed eastern horizon—rooftops, lakesides, or a flat field work wonders to see it “hug” the skyline before climbing higher.
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Check the Forecast: Use apps like Dark Sky or Weather.com to confirm clear skies. If clouds threaten, many planetariums (Griffith Observatory, CA; Adler Planetarium, IL) and local astronomy clubs often host live feeds or indoor presentations as backups.
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Gear & Photography (Because Your Instagram Feed Demands It)
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Naked-Eye Appreciation: No fancy equipment needed—just a comfy lawn chair, a mug of iced tea (or hot chocolate if you’re in a cooler region), and a willingness to look up.
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Binoculars/Telescopes: Even inexpensive 7×50 binoculars reveal crater edges at the terminator (the line between lunar day and night). A small telescope (2–4″ aperture) brings out contrasting maria and highland terrain, making you feel momentarily like you’re piloting the Apollo command module.
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Smartphone Tricks:
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Stabilize: Use a small tripod or prop your phone on a stack of books.
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Moon Mode: If your phone has a “Moon” or “Night” setting, engage it. Otherwise, lower ISO to 100–200 and set exposure to around 1/125 – 1/250 s.
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Lens Attachments: Clip-on telephoto “reach” lenses can give you a slightly closer view, but resist full digital zoom—your shots will be pixelated.
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DSLR/Mirrorless Pro Tips:
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Tripod Required: Even slight shake wrecks a well-framed moon.
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Lens Choice: Aim for 200 mm or longer to fill the frame effectively.
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Settings to Start: ISO 200, aperture f/8, shutter speed 1/125 s; bracket at ±1 EV to account for atmospheric haze or thin clouds.
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A photographer captured this time-lapse video of the majestic Strawberry Moon rising over San Francisco, California. 🍓🌕 pic.twitter.com/nAWWi0PWz2
— AccuWeather (@accuweather) June 25, 2024
Pro tip: If you time your shot just after civil twilight (when there’s still a hint of color in the sky), you’ll capture that “blue hour” backdrop that makes the moon look extra dimensional—Instagram-approved without resorting to filters.
Fun Facts & Berry-Infused Humor
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“Moon Pies” vs. Real Moon Craters: While Moon Pies satisfy your sweet tooth, the real lunar craters date back billions of years—far less tasty, but undeniably more epic.
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Strawberry Fields Forever? Technically, the moon won’t ever look juicy-red like a fresh strawberry; any rosy tint is purely atmospheric trickery when it’s low on the horizon. But close your eyes and imagine biting into a cosmic berry—you’ll feel that sugary vibe.
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Berry Bestie: If you’re hosting a “Moon-and-Berries” party, serve strawberry shortcake, strawberry lemonade, or moon-shaped sugar cookies decorated with pink icing. Bonus points for glow-in-the-dark tableware (LED tealights under your plate keep things otherworldly).
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Celestial Berry Mashup: For music lovers, cue “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles as your moon rises. Why? Because the Strawberry Moon often coincides with the approach of summer solstice, a show-stopper of seasonal vibes. Weaving in Taylor Swift Buys Back Her Masters.
The Astro-Essence: Why June’s Moon Feels “Different”
Unlike winter’s cold, crisp moons, June’s Strawberry Moon often rides low and lazy across the horizon. Because it’s so close to the summer solstice (June 20–22), you’ll notice it reaching only about 21.9° above the southern horizon when it’s 100% full—lower than any other full moon this year. The result? A big, buttery-yellow moon that lazily inches its way skyward, reminding us that summer’s here to stay.
Between the warmth of longer days and the lingering glow of nearly midnight sunlight, June’s Strawberry Moon embodies that moment when spring’s blossoms give way to summer’s abundance. Its low path also means more atmospheric scattering, which is why photographers and skywatchers often remark, “I’ve never seen a moon so golden!”
The Zodiac Scoop: How the Strawberry Moon 2025 Affects Your Sign
Astrology fans, rejoice: in 2025, the Strawberry Moon peaks in Sagittarius (22°)—a sign synonymous with freedom, adventure, and truth-seeking. That fiery archer inspires us to chase personal growth, wanderlust, and maybe even philosophical “aha!” moments under its rosy glow. Here’s a tongue-in-cheek breakdown of what each sign might experience:
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Aries (Mar 21–Apr 19):
You’re already the bold spark plug of the zodiac, so this lunation may nudge you to spontaneously book a weekend getaway or sign up for that extreme sport you’ve been Googling. (Just maybe don’t wake everyone up at 3 a.m. with your newfound zeal.) -
Taurus (Apr 20–May 20):
As an earth sign, you’re all about indulgence—especially when strawberries are involved. Expect cravings for strawberry shortcake and a deep appreciation for cozy moments watching the moon from a plush blanket. Romance could bloom near a candlelit picnic. -
Gemini (May 21–Jun 20):
Your dual nature thrives under this chatty moon—text threads about moon-gazing sessions will explode, and you might find yourself organizing impromptu group outings. Warning: your FOMO might reach lunar levels if you miss one conversation. -
Cancer (Jun 21–Jul 22):
Home is your sanctuary, and the Strawberry Moon’s warmth turns you extra sentimental. Break out old photo albums, cook a family-style dinner, and invite loved ones to watch the moonrise. You might shed a sentimental tear over how fast the strawberries ripen (and life moves). -
Leo (Jul 23–Aug 22):
The limelight is your natural habitat, and a big, glowing moon is the ultimate stage. Consider hosting a “moonlit fashion show” in your backyard—sequins optional, but a spotlight on the Strawberry Moon is mandatory. Just don’t eclipse everyone else’s fun. -
Virgo (Aug 23–Sep 22):
Meticulous as ever, you’ll plan the perfect moon-viewing itinerary: weather check at 6 a.m., picnic basket inventory by noon, check-in with friends at 8 p.m., alignment of tripod legs at 9 p.m. Embrace spontaneity by allowing yourself a few minutes of lounging on a blanket, darn it. -
Libra (Sep 23–Oct 22):
Romance is in the air—under this Sag moon, you’ll crave balance, beauty, and maybe an elegant rooftop date. Consider gifting your partner a small strawberry bouquet and share whispered sweet nothings as the moon ascends. Or just wander the aisles of Trader Joe’s for decorative berry candles. -
Scorpio (Oct 23–Nov 21):
Intensity is your trademark, and under the Strawberry Moon, you’ll dive deep into emotional currents. Ideal for heartfelt conversations, late-night confessions, and maybe binging that moody thriller you’ve been avoiding. Don’t be surprised if you feel spiritually “purged” by dawn. -
Sagittarius (Nov 22–Dec 21):
Surprise—this moon peaks in your sign! Expect a personal growth explosion: you might journal your life goals, plan a retreat, or spontaneously learn a new skill (Origami under moonlight, anyone?). Just be mindful not to overcommit—later cacti need care, too. -
Capricorn (Dec 22–Jan 19):
Your driven nature relishes productivity, but the moon’s influence invites you to slow down. Instead of crunching spreadsheets at midnight, try a meditative moonlit walk or treat yourself to decadent strawberry cheesecake at 11 p.m. Yes, “bed by 10 p.m.” can wait one night. -
Aquarius (Jan 20–Feb 18):
The innovative rebel of the zodiac, you might concoct a viral TikTok of your “Strawberry Moon Hack”—perhaps assembling a DIY telescope out of recycled coffee cans. Or you’ll host a socially conscious moon-watching potluck to discuss eco-friendly farming practices for strawberries. Radical and adorable. -
Pisces (Feb 19–Mar 20):
Your dreamy sensibility thrives as the moonlight dances on water. Plan a lakeside picnic, float in a canoe, and let the gentle ripples reflect starlight and strawberry-scented candles. Your artistic instincts might spark poetry or moon-inspired watercolors well into dawn.
Whether you’re fiercely ambitonal, quietly nurturing, or uniquely avant-garde, the Strawberry Moon in Sagittarius invites every sign to taste a little extra sweetness in the night air and embrace the season’s abundance.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss Strawberry Moon 2025
The 2025 Strawberry Moon isn’t simply another monthly celestial event—it’s a portal to seasonal nostalgia, community gatherings, and a reminder that nature’s cycles still matter in our fast-paced digital age. Whether you’re savoring strawberry cheesecake at 10 p.m. or hauling a telescope to a state park at 3 a.m., this full moon promises to kindle hope, inspire whimsy, and maybe inspire you to actually grow a strawberry plant next spring (no green thumb required).
So, mark your calendar for June 10–11, 2025, gather friends and family, and look skyward for a night of laughter, astrological musings, and perhaps a moment of genuine wonder as the Strawberry Moon rises. After all, there’s nothing quite like biting into a fresh strawberry under moonlight—only to realize a bite of that sweet fruit pales in comparison to the cosmic lightshow above.
