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 2025, the Pink Moon reaches peak illumination at 8:23 PM EDT P.M. on Saturday, April 12, 2025.
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:
- All About The Full Wolf Moon: The First of the Year’s Moons
- March’s Full Moon: Celebrating a Full Worm Moon
- April’s Full Moon: Celebrating the Beauty and Magic of the Pink Moon
- The 12 Full Moons: Their Names, Meaning, and Magical Influence
- 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
- Strawberry Moon Magic: Exploring the Folklore and Significance of June’s Full Moon
- July’s Full Moon: Exploring the Folklore and Significance of a Buck Moon
- August’s Full Moon: Exploring the Folklore and Significance of a Sturgeon Moon
- September’s Full Moon: Exploring the Folklore and Significance of a Harvest Moon
- October’s Full Moon: Delving into the Traditions and Magic of the Hunter’s Moon
- November’s Full Moon: The Traditions, Magic, and Significance of a Beaver moon
- December’s Full Moon: The Significance, Symbolism, and Folklore of the Cold Moon
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 2025
In 2025, we’ll be treated to 12 full moons, each with its own unique name and significance. Here’s a handy guide to help you mark your calendar and prepare for these lunar events:
January 13, 2025 – Full Wolf Moon
On Monday, January 13, 2025, at 5:27 PM EST, the Full Wolf Moon will illuminate the night sky. This moon is traditionally associated with the howling of wolves during the cold winter nights.
👉 Read more about the Full Wolf Moon.
February 12, 2025 – Full Snow Moon
The Full Snow Moon will occur on Wednesday, February 12, 2025, at 8:53 AM EST. This moon signifies the heavy snowfall that typically occurs during this month.
👉 Read more about February’s Full Snow Moon
March 14, 2025 – Full Worm Moon
Witness the Full Worm Moon on Friday, March 14, 2025, at 2:55 AM EDT. This moon marks the time when the ground begins to thaw, and earthworms reappear, signaling the approach of spring.
👉 Read More about March’s Full Moon
April 12, 2025 – Full Pink Moon
The Full Pink Moon will rise on Saturday, April 12, 2025, at 8:22 PM EDT. Named after the early springtime blooms of the moss pink, or wild ground phlox, this moon heralds the arrival of warmer days.
👉 Read more about April’s Full Moon
May 12, 2025 – Full Flower Moon
On Monday, May 12, 2025, at 12:56 PM EDT, the Full Flower Moon will reach its peak. This moon is named for the abundant blooming flowers during this time of year.
👉 Read more about May’s Full Moon
June 11, 2025 – Full Strawberry Moon
The Full Strawberry Moon will occur on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at 3:44 AM EDT. This moon signifies the ripening of strawberries, ready for harvesting.
👉Read more about June’s Full Moon
July 10, 2025 – Full Buck Moon
On Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 4:37 PM EDT, the Full Buck Moon will be visible. This moon is named for the time when male deer, known as bucks, begin to grow their new antlers.
👉 Read more about July’s Full Moon
August 9, 2025 – Full Sturgeon Moon
The Full Sturgeon Moon will rise on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at 3:55 AM EDT. This moon is named after the large sturgeon fish that were more easily caught during this time of year.
👉 Read more about August’s Full Moon
September 7, 2025 – Full Corn Moon
On Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 2:09 PM EDT, the Full Corn Moon will occur. This moon signifies the time of harvesting corn.
👉 Read more about September’s Full Moon
October 6, 2025 – Full Harvest Moon
The Full Harvest Moon will be on Monday, October 6, 2025, at 11:48 PM EDT. This moon is closest to the autumnal equinox and traditionally allowed farmers to work late into the night by its light.
👉 Read more about October’s Full Moon
November 5, 2025 – Full Beaver Moon
The Full Beaver Moon will occur on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, at 8:19 AM EST. This moon is named for the time when beavers begin to prepare for winter.
👉 Explore the folklore of November’s full moon
December 4, 2025 – Full Cold Moon
On Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 6:14 PM EST, the Full Cold Moon will rise. This moon signifies the onset of the cold winter months.
👉 Read more about December’s Full 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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