Mark your calendars: the next full moon is coming up this Friday, November 15th, and it’s commonly known as the ‘Beaver Moon’!
If you’re worried about missing its full glory, have no fear! The moon will look full for about three days—starting a few hours before sunrise on Thursday, November 14th, and lasting until a few hours before sunrise on Sunday, November 17th.
This full moon is extra special because it’s the fourth and final supermoon of 2024, which means it’ll appear just a bit brighter and bigger than the one back in mid-August.
If you’ve enjoyed the supermoon energy this year, now’s your chance to bask in its glow one last time!
According to NASA, the name ‘Beaver Moon’ started becoming more widely used after The Maine Farmers’ Almanac began publishing Indigenous names for full moons in the 1930s. This moon is also referred to as the Frost or Frosty Moon, or the Snow Moon.
Beaver Moon may stem from November being the time to set beaver traps before the swamps froze, ensuring a supply of furs for the winter months.
Another explanation is simply that beavers are particularly busy during this time of year, working hard to prepare for the cold ahead.
But if you’re hoping for something other than beaver-related lore, as mentioned before, you might hear this moon referred to as the Frost Moon or the Snow Moon, depending on how early the frost and snow have started creeping in where you live.
Similar to other moons, around the world different cultures are marking this time with festivals and traditions.
In Thailand and neighbouring countries, the full Moon is celebrated with Loy Krathong, a beautiful festival where people decorate and float small baskets on rivers.
Cambodia celebrates the Bon Om Touk or Boat Racing Festival, a three-day event that features dragon boat races along the country’s rivers.
Myanmar holds the Tazaungdaing Festival, a colorful occasion where people release hot air balloons—sometimes decorated with fireworks—into the night sky.
And the full moon isn’t all that’s on the radar!
For those who like to connect with the cosmos, the Pleiades star cluster will also be making a special appearance near the full moon during this time. It’s a fantastic sight for stargazers and should provide a gorgeous backdrop to your moonlit evening!
Whether you’re taking in the beauty of the moon, exploring the cultural celebrations, or simply enjoying the crisp fall air, this Beaver Moon is one you won’t want to miss.
Let’s hope for clear skies!
