The much-anticipated astronomical start of summer begins with the solstice on June 20. However, this is not the only exciting astronomical event in June. There will also be the full Strawberry Moon, which will brighten the night sky on June 11. Its nickname was coined by the Algonquin people, due to its appearance marking the beginning of wild strawberry harvesting season in the northeastern United States around this time. In fact, many of the names for full moons have Native American origins, such as the Harvest Moon in October and the Worm Moon in March.
Astronomically, the Strawberry Moon doesn’t differ significantly from other full moons in size or color. It’s not considered a “supermoon”, as that only occurs when a full moon coincides with its closest approach to Earth in its elliptical orbit. However, its connection to the beginning of summer makes it an anticipated event. The moon appears as a brilliant, steady light in the night sky, reflecting the height of the growing season.
Today, the Strawberry Moon continues to hold cultural and spiritual importance. It is a time for people to reflect on their personal growth, new beginnings and the Earth’s natural cycles. Whether through the lens of astronomy, cultural tradition or spiritual practice, the full moon serves as a reminder of the connection between the Earth, the cosmos and ourselves.
So celebrate the beginning of summer and the Strawberry Moon by making some delicious strawberry treats! I will be celebrating with my favorite summer dessert, strawberry shortcake (on a traditional style biscuit) with extra whipped cream. Yum! But if strawberry shortcake is not your thing, we have lots of cookbooks available to check out. Stop by and browse our shelves!
References
Kraft, R. (2019). Moonlit Moments: Modern Interpretations of Ancient Traditions. Skyward Press.
NASA. (2020). What is the Strawberry Moon? National Aeronautics and Space Administration. Retrieved from https://www.nasa.gov.
Ober, E. (1997). The Native American Names for the Full Moon. Smithsonian Institution Press.