As spring unfurls across the Northern Hemisphere, April brings a full moon known as the Pink Moon. This lunar event is steeped in history and folklore, with many cultures assigning special significance to it. Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or simply appreciate the beauty of the natural world, the Pink Moon is a sight to behold. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at April’s full moon, exploring its origins, significance, symbolism, folklore and how you can best experience and honor it.
When Will we see April's Full Moon?
As the weather warms and flowers begin to bloom, April’s Full Moon, the Pink Moon, serves as a celestial reminder that the earth is coming back to life after a long winter. In 2024, the Pink Moon reaches peak illumination at 7:49 P.M. Eastern Time on Tuesday, April 23rd.
What is a Full Moon?
When the Moon is full, we see it as a complete circle in the sky. This is because the whole of the side of the Moon facing the Earth is lit up by the Sun’s rays. The Moon produces no visible light of its own, so we can only see the parts of the Moon that are lit up by other objects. A small amount of light comes from distant stars and the reflection of light from the Earth (known as ‘Earthshine’). However, the main source of light for the Moon is the Sun.
Full Moon Energy
Ancient peoples used the Full Moon and the Lunar calendar to track the seasons. They named each Full Moon for an entire month, not just for the night of its fullest phase. Each Full Moon has its own energy, and this energy is magnified during a Full Moon. The Full Moon does not just affect us humans; it also affects animals and the Earth itself. A Full Moon causes bigger ocean tides and even extreme meteorological conditions.
Full moon – Two weeks after the new moon, it becomes wholly illuminated by the sun. Hence, we have a full moon, and its orbit is halfway completed.
How do I harness its energy? — During a Full Moon, our emotions are amplified and dreams are intensified. For some people, it is a time of balanced energies. The light of the full moon illuminates our world, allowing us to see the situations in our lives and in our relationships with other people more clearly. It allows us to see things we have ignored or repressed, but also allows us to let go of things or people we have outgrown. Full Moons are a good time to start a new ritual or project.
Why is it Named the Pink Moon?
April’s Full Moon is called the Pink Moon because it coincides with the blooming of pink phlox flowers in North America. This moon can also be called the Sprouting Grass Moon, Egg Moon, or Fish Moon, as it marks the time when fish begin to swim upstream to spawn, and when new plants begin to sprout.
The name “Egg Moon” is related to Easter, which often takes place around the same time as the Pink Moon. In some Native American cultures, it is called the Wind Moon, as April marks the beginning of the windy season. The Pink Moon is a symbol of renewal, growth, and fertility, and is celebrated in many cultures around the world.
If you’re looking to learn more about the moons of the year, their names, and their meaning, here are a few articles to get you going:
- March’s Full Moon: Celebrating a Full Worm Moon
- The 12 Full Moons: Their Names, Meaning, and Magical Influence
- All About The Full Wolf Moon: The First of the Year’s 13 Moons
- Exploring February’s Full Moon: A Night Under a Glowing Snow Moon
- Living By The Moon for Amazing Benefits and Nature Connection
- 6 Full Moon Rituals to Restore Your Sacred Femininity and Connect with Nature
Is April's Full Moon Actually Pink?
Sadly, no, the “pink moon” doesn’t actually look pink. It’s the nickname of the full moon that occurs every April and is named after the pink phlox springtime flower.
Spiritual Significance of April's Full Moon
In terms of spiritual significance, April’s full moon is often associated with rebirth, renewal, and growth. It represents a time of new beginnings, as the earth awakens from its winter slumber and new life begins to emerge.
In many spiritual traditions, the full moon is considered a powerful time for meditation, reflection, and setting intentions. During April’s full Moon, some people may focus their intentions on letting go of old patterns or habits that no longer serve them, and cultivating new practices and beliefs that align with their highest self.
Additionally, the April’s full moon is frequently seen as a reminder of the interconnectedness of all things, and a time to honor and celebrate the beauty and abundance of the natural world around us.
The Folklore of the Pink Moon
In some Native American traditions, the Pink Moon is associated with the arrival of spring and the start of the planting season. It is said to be a time of fertility, growth, and abundance.
According to some European folklore, April’s full moon is a time of transformation and metamorphosis. It is said that during this time, witches, and other magical creatures are able to shape-shift and take on new forms.
In some cultures, the Pink Moon is associated with love and romance. It is said that couples who gaze upon the full moon together will have a long and happy relationship.
Some legends say that the Pink Moon is a time of heightened intuition and psychic ability. It is believed that during this time, people are more attuned to their spiritual side and may experience vivid dreams or visions.
Finally, some believe that the Pink Moon has a connection to the divine feminine. It is seen as a time to honor and celebrate the power and wisdom of women, and to connect with the nurturing and creative energy of the universe. To explore more on this theme, read: Sacred Moon Tea Recipe: Celebrate the Divine Feminine and the Realization of Desires.
Full Moon Calendar 2024
In 2024, there will be 12 full moons. Mark your calendars accordingly! Here are the dates for the 2024 full moons:
January 25, 2024 (The Full Wolf Moon)
On Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 12:54 PM EST, witness the Full Wolf Moon, marking the second full moon of winter. It’s also known as the Ice Moon, Old Moon, Moon After Yule, and Snow Moon.
February 24, 2024 (Full Snow Moon)
The Full Snow Moon graces the sky on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 7:30 AM EST, signaling the end of winter. It’s alternatively called the Hunger Moon, Chaste Moon, and Storm Moon.
March 25, 2024 (Full Worm Moon)
Catch the Full Worm Moon on Monday, March 25, 2024, at 3:00 AM EDT, ushering in the first full moon of spring. This moon is also referred to as the Sap Moon, Crow Moon, Chaste Moon, Sugar Moon, and Lenten Moon. A Penumbral Lunar Eclipse coincides with this full moon.
April 23, 2024 (Full Pink Moon)
The Full Pink Moon appears on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at 7:49 PM EDT, marking spring’s second full moon. It’s also known as the Egg Moon, Full Sprouting Grass Moon, and Full Fish Moon, the latter commonly used by coastal indigenous tribes.
May 23, 2024 (Full Flower Moon)
On Thursday, May 23, 2024, at 9:53 AM EDT, the Full Flower Moon emerges as the last full moon of spring. It’s also called the Corn Planting Moon and Milk Moon.
June 21, 2024 (Full Strawberry Moon)
The Full Strawberry Moon, the first full moon of summer, will be visible on Friday, June 21, 2024, at 9:08 PM EDT. Other names include the Rose Moon, Mead Moon, and Honey Moon.
July 21, 2024 (Full Buck Moon)
Sunday, July 21, 2024, at 6:17 AM EDT, brings the Full Buck Moon, the second full moon of summer. It’s also known as the Thunder Moon and Hay Moon.
August 19, 2024 (Full Sturgeon Moon)
The Super Sturgeon Moon, a seasonal blue moon and the third full moon of summer, occurs on Monday, August 19, 2024, at 2:26 PM EDT. It’s the first of four 2024 supermoons. Other names include the Barley Moon, Corn Moon, Dog Moon, Fruit Moon, Grain Moon, Green Corn Moon, Herb Moon, Red Moon, and Wyrt Moon.
September 17, 2024 (Full Harvest Moon)
Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at 10:34 PM EDT, features the Super Harvest Moon, the last full moon of summer and the second of four supermoons in 2024. A Penumbral Lunar Eclipse coincides with this moon. It’s also known as the Full Corn Moon in other years.
October 17, 2024 (Full Hunter’s Moon)
The Super Hunter’s Moon, the closest full moon of 2024 and the first of autumn, will be on Thursday, October 17, 2024, at 7:26 AM EDT.
November 15, 2024 (Full Beaver Moon)
On Friday, November 15, 2024, at 4:28 PM EST, the Super Beaver Moon, the second full moon of autumn and the last of the 2024 supermoons, will be visible. It’s also known as the Frosty Moon.
December 15, 2024 (Full Cold Moon)
The year concludes with the Full Cold Moon on Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 4:02 AM EST, the final full moon of autumn. Other names are the Long Nights Moon and the Oak Moon.
Ways to Honor April's Full Moon
- Meditate under the full moon: Find a quiet spot outside where you can sit and soak in the energy of April’s full moon. Take some deep breaths and let your mind quiet down, focusing on the moon and its beauty.
- Create an altar: Set up a special altar with items that represent the Pink Moon, such as pink flowers, crystals, or candles. Use this space for meditation or reflection.
- Practice gratitude: Take some time to reflect on all the things you are grateful for in your life. Write them down or say them out loud, expressing your appreciation for the abundance that surrounds you.
- Perform a ritual: Create a special ritual to honor April’s Full Moon, such as lighting candles, burning incense, or performing a symbolic gesture that represents letting go of the old and embracing the new.
- Connect with nature: Spend time outdoors and connect with the natural world around you. Take a walk in a park, hike in the woods, or simply sit and watch the stars.
- Cleanse your space: Use sage or other cleansing herbs to clear negative energy from your home or workspace. This can help create a fresh start and prepare for new growth and abundance.
- Work with crystals: Use crystals that are associated with the Pink Moon, such as rose quartz or moonstone. Meditate with them, carry them with you, or place them on your altar.
- Perform a releasing ceremony: Write down any negative thoughts, emotions, or habits that you want to let go of, and burn the paper as a symbol of release and transformation.
- Connect with others: Spend time with friends or loved ones, sharing your gratitude and celebrating the Pink Moon together.
- Set intentions: Write down your goals and intentions for the coming months, focusing on growth, abundance, and positive change. Keep them in a visible place and refer to them often as a reminder of your vision.
A Ritual to Honor April’s Full Moon
One beautiful ritual that honors nature and celebrates April’s full moon and the start of Spring is creating a flower mandala. A mandala is a circular design that is frequently used as a symbol of wholeness and balance, and creating one with flowers is a way to honor the beauty and abundance of nature.
Materials needed:
- A large piece of flat ground (such as a lawn or park)
- Flower petals, leaves, or other natural materials (such as twigs, rocks, or shells)
- Optional: crystals, candles, or other items that represent the Pink Moon or Spring
Steps:
- Find a flat area of ground where you can create your mandala. If possible, choose a spot that is surrounded by trees or other natural elements.
- Collect flowers, petals, and other natural materials, selecting colors that represent the Pink Moon and Spring (such as pink, white, yellow, and green).
- Start by creating a circle on the ground with flowers or other materials. This will be the base of your mandala.
- Begin to build your mandala by placing flowers and other materials in a symmetrical pattern around the circle. You can create patterns or designs that are meaningful to you, or simply let your creativity guide you.
- As you build your mandala, take time to connect with the energy of nature and the Pink Moon. Set intentions for the coming months, focusing on growth, abundance, and positive change.
- When you’re finished, step back and admire your creation. You can sit or meditate in the center of the mandala, allowing its energy to surround and support you.
- When you’re ready, you can take pictures or simply leave the mandala as an offering to nature. If you choose to leave it, make sure to respect the environment and clean up any debris before you leave.
This ritual is a beautiful way to connect with the energy of April’s full moon and the natural world, and to honor the start of Spring and the abundance of new growth and renewal.
IN CONCLUSION
I hope you enjoyed learning some meaning, folklore, and history surrounding April’s full moon. Keep in mind that there are many other full moons throughout the year, each one with its own unique history, meaning, and folklore.
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