What is a Strawberry Moon? Here’s everything you need to know

What is a Strawberry Moon? This enchanting full moon, which rises each June, marks the beginning of summer’s sweetness. Named by Indigenous tribes to signal the short harvest season for wild strawberries, this full moon carries deep symbolic meaning. In this guide, we’ll explore the origin of the name, its spiritual significance, and how you can celebrate its energy through ritual and reflection.

What is a Strawberry Moon?

A Strawberry Moon is the name given to the full moon that occurs in June. The name originates from Indigenous tribes, particularly the Algonquin people, who used it to mark the time of year when wild strawberries were ripe for harvesting.

This is also the last full moon of spring or the first of summer, depending on the lunar calendar. It’s often associated with abundance, ripening, and the fullness of life. In spiritual and astrological circles, it’s seen as a powerful time for setting intentions, celebrating growth, and embracing the vibrant energy of the season.

When is the next Strawberry Moon?

The next Strawberry Moon will occur on Wednesday, June 11, 2025. It reaches peak illumination at 12:44 AM Pacific Daylight Time (PDT). In 2025, this moon will rise in the constellation Ophiuchus, rising around dusk and setting around dawn. For those interested in taking a peek, it’s best to look to the eastern horizon as twilight fades on June 11.

Why is it called a Strawberry Moon?

The Strawberry Moon gets its name from the Algonquin and other Native American tribes who used the lunar cycles to track time and seasons. June’s full moon signaled the short but essential window when wild strawberries were ripe and ready for harvest. So, rather than describing the moon’s color, the name reflects the agricultural and seasonal rhythms of the land.

European colonists adopted many of these Indigenous moon names, and the tradition carried on. Today, the term is a poetic reminder of nature’s timing and the early summer bounty.

Is the Strawberry Moon pink?

Despite its name, the Strawberry Moon is not actually pink in color. The term originates from Native American traditions—specifically, the Algonquin people—who named it after the short season when wild strawberries ripen, rather than its color.

That said, the moon can sometimes appear reddish, pinkish, or golden when it’s near the horizon due to atmospheric conditions, such as dust, humidity, and pollution, scattering the light. But this effect isn’t unique. It can happen with any full moon, depending on where and when you view it. So, while the name sounds sweet and colorful, the moon itself usually shines with its usual silvery-white or soft amber glow.

How often does a Strawberry Moon occur?

A Strawberry Moon occurs once a year, typically in June. It’s the name given to the full moon that happens closest to the summer solstice in the Northern Hemisphere. Since the lunar cycle lasts about 29.5 days, there’s usually one full moon each month. Because the moon follows a predictable cycle, the Strawberry Moon reliably returns each year, though the exact date and time can vary slightly.

What does the Strawberry Moon mean spiritually?

​​Spiritually and symbolically, the Strawberry Moon is often associated with themes of love, gratitude, and fruition. Since it arrives close to the summer solstice—the longest day of the year—it’s seen as a time of illumination, celebration, and emotional ripening. It’s a reminder of the Earth’s natural cycles and the abundance that early summer brings. Many people use this moon as a moment to reflect on what has blossomed in their lives and to set intentions for continued growth. While the moon itself doesn’t turn pink, its name evokes the sweetness and fullness of the season.

If you’d like to learn more, check out our complete guide on the spiritual meaning of the Strawberry Moon.