Get Ready For The Stunning Strawberry Moon Monday

If you enjoy looking up at the night sky, you'll want to mark June 29th on your calendar.

The Strawberry Moon will rise on Monday, June 29th, bringing the first full moon of summer, and it just might be one of the prettiest moonrises of the year.

PEAK VIEWING FOR THE STRAWBERRY MOON

The moon reaches peak illumination at about 6:56 p.m. Central Time, but the best viewing in Minnesota will be later that evening as it climbs above the southeastern horizon.

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WHY IS IT CALLED A STRAWBERRY MOON?

Why is June's moon called a 'Strawberry Moon'? Despite its name, the Strawberry Moon is not actually pink or red. The name comes from Native American tribes, including the Algonquin people, who used the full moon to mark the short strawberry harvesting season in early summer.

THE MOON 'ILLUSION'

This year's Strawberry Moon is also expected to appear low in the sky, which can make it look larger than normal when it first rises. Astronomers call this the "moon illusion." The moon may also take on a yellow or orange glow as its light passes through more of Earth's atmosphere near the horizon.

BEST VIEWING FOR THE STRAWBERRY MOON ON JUNE 29TH

For the best view in Central Minnesota, find a location with a clear view of the southeastern horizon. Open fields, lakeshores, and parks away from bright city lights are ideal.

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OTHER NAMES OF JUNE'S FULL MOON

June's full moon has other traditional names as well. In some cultures, it is known as the Honey Moon or Mead Moon. I'm assuming it is related to the harvesting of honey and the creation of Mead, a sweet honey wine.

WEATHER

If the weather cooperates, Minnesotans should have a great opportunity to see it. If you enjoy photography, the moonrise will be the perfect time to grab your camera and capture the Strawberry Moon hanging low in the sky.