Mark your calendars—Saturday, April 12, 2025, is the date to catch one of the most enchanting celestial events of the year: the Full Pink Moon! But don’t expect a glowing pink ball in the sky. While the moon may not actually turn pink, its beauty is undeniable. This full moon is filled with meaning—whether you’re a stargazer, a gardener, or someone who just loves a bit of cosmic wonder.
So, grab your stargazing gear, a cup of tea, and maybe even a few friends because this is one moon you won’t want to miss!
Why Is It Called the 'Pink' Moon?
Let’s clear something up—the moon won’t suddenly look like a giant cotton candy in the sky. The Pink Moon gets its name from the vibrant moss phlox (Phlox subulata), a wildflower that blooms in April. Known as moss pink, this flower carpets the ground in hues of rosy pink, signaling the arrival of spring. So, while the moon won’t exactly be pink, it’ll surely make you think of the fresh, colorful burst of life happening here on Earth.
Fun fact: This moon has roots in centuries-old traditions. Native American tribes like the Algonquin called it the "Breaking Ice Moon" because it’s the time when ice melts and spring arrives. Other names, like the Tlingit’s “Budding Moon,” tie the full moon to new growth and fresh beginnings. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, if that doesn’t feel like a cosmic fresh start, we don’t know what does!
Micromoon: What’s That All About?
Now, here’s where things get a bit more scientific (don’t worry, we’ll keep it fun!). April’s full moon isn’t just any full moon. It’s a micromoon, which means the moon will be at its farthest point from Earth—called apogee. This happens a day after the full moon, on April 13, at 6:49 p.m. EDT.
So, what does this mean for you? Well, the moon will appear slightly smaller and a tad dimmer than usual. But don’t let that dampen your excitement! The difference is minimal (just 7% smaller), and you’ll still be in awe. Want to see it look extra big? Catch it as it rises above the horizon—that’s when the Moon Illusion kicks in, and the moon will look huge and absolutely magical, even if it's technically a little smaller than a supermoon.
The Paschal Moon: A Date With Easter
Here’s a cool tidbit: this moon is also known as the Paschal Moon, which is a big deal in Christian tradition. This full moon marks the first official full moon of spring and determines the date of Easter. Easter always falls on the first Sunday after the Paschal Moon, so this moon plays a significant role in religious history.
If it’s the last full moon before spring, it’s called the Lenten Moon. But in 2025, it’s all about spring and Easter! So while you enjoy the glow of this beautiful moon, you're also witnessing a centuries-old tradition. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, this full moon determines when Easter will be celebrated this year.
When and Where to See the Pink Moon
You won’t need to travel far to catch a glimpse of this moon. Just step outside on April 12 and head to an open area to watch it rise. You’ll see it at 8:22 p.m. EDT, shining with a golden hue as it climbs into the sky. Even though it’s technically a micromoon, the Moon Illusion will make it look larger than life as it rises over the horizon, so be sure to snap a few pictures!
If you can’t catch it at the exact moment of fullness, don’t worry—it will still look amazing a day or two before and after. You’ve got a window of time to enjoy this celestial beauty.
The Pink Moon and Your Garden
Let’s bring this back down to Earth. The full moon in April isn’t just a pretty sight—it’s also a great time for getting your garden in shape. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the full moon is a perfect time to prune, mow, and even control weeds, thanks to the moon’s gravitational pull.
And that’s not all—there’s also folklore that suggests if the moon looks pale, rain is coming. If it rises golden, expect frost. It’s like the moon is giving you a heads-up for your garden plans!
A Moon to Remember
April’s Pink Moon isn’t just another full moon—it’s a cosmic event filled with wonder, history, and a touch of magic. From its seasonal name to its role in determining Easter’s date, this moon offers more than just a beautiful sight in the sky. It’s a reminder of renewal, growth, and the eternal rhythms of the universe.
So, on April 12, take a moment to step outside, look up, and enjoy this stunning celestial show.