Get ready for a magical evening as the summer solstice and full moon collide in harmonious promise!
On Friday, June 21st, this month’s full moon will rise at around 9:55 p.m. and shine bright until it sets at 5:12 a.m.
The June full moon is commonly known as the ‘Strawberry Moon’—which according to NASA, stems from the relatively short window for harvesting strawberries in parts of the US.
Other names include Flower Moon, Hot Moon, Hoe Moon and Planting Moon.
A particularly fun European name for this full moon is the Mead or Honey Moon, mead being a drink created from fermented honey, water and sometimes fruits, spices, grains or hops.
Because of this, June’s moon is also referred to as the ‘sweetest’ moon, said to influence the word ‘honeymoon’, as newlyweds were said to be gifted mead during their first month of marriage.
As it was custom to wed in June, this theory makes sense. Though, as NASA highlights, there isn’t enough evidence to fully support this theory, but it’s still fun!
Similar to other full moons, it is recognized and honoured in different ways, including many centuries-old traditions across several cultures.
For example, June’s moon is known by the Hindus as the Vat Purnima. During the three days of this full moon, married women show their love for their partners by tying a ceremonial thread around a banyan tree. It’s based on the legend of Savitri and Satyavan.
Buddhists refer to this moon as the Poson Poya. The Poson holiday in Sri Lanka celebrates the introduction of Buddhism in 236 BCE.
So make sure you’ve found a good viewing spot and enjoy!
