Did you look up in wonder last night at the sight of the moon?
The full moon last night night (and tonight if you missed it) is commonly referred to as a ‘Strawberry Moon’, also known as a ‘Rose Moon’ or ‘Honey Moon’ by some.
The term “Strawberry Moon” has captivated the imagination of many, conjuring images of a moon tinged pink or red. However, the name does not reflect the colour of the moon; instead, it stems from seasonal and cultural significance tied to the month of June
The name “Strawberry Moon” is said to be rooted in certain Native American traditions. The full moon in June marked the beginning of the strawberry harvest season—an event of great importance. Wild strawberries, ripe and abundant during this time, were celebrated as one of the first fruits of the season.
While the term “Strawberry Moon” seems to be tied to Native American culture, Europeans also developed names for the June full moon based on their own agrarian and seasonal observations. In some European traditions, the June moon was referred to as the “Rose Moon” or “Honey Moon,” reflecting other seasonal phenomena such as the blooming of roses or the gathering of honey.
The Strawberry Moon this year is special for another reason. It is the lowest full moon in the sky for nearly twenty years, this is the reason it has a reddish hue. It appears unusually low in the sky due to a phenomenon known as a major lunar standstill. This event occurs every 18.6 years, causing the moon to reach its furthest northern and southern points in the sky. The last major lunar standstill occurred in 2006, and the next one won’t happen until 2043. The moon has a reddish hue due to the light rays passing through the densest layers of the atmosphere
The Strawberry Moon is a testament to the profound ways in which humans have historically observed and interpreted the natural world. Its name, steeped in cultural and seasonal significance, bridges the gap between ancient traditions and contemporary appreciation. Whether viewed through the lens of Native American heritage, European influences, or modern astronomy, the Strawberry Moon continues to inspire wonder and curiosity.
Celebrating Seaford 