The Harvest Moon

The Corn Moon is October’s full moon this year and it will be the first of three supermoons.

The Harvest moon is the moon closest to the Autumn equinox, often that can fall in September but this year it is October.

Why Call It The Harvest Moon?

The names of the moons often reflect the time of year they appear and this is the same, it is called the Harvest Moon because it is closest to the Autumn equinox and harvest time. The full moon would provide extra light so the harvest could go on later especially as for a few nights the moon will rise at nearly the same time giving the impression that there are several nights of full moon.

Other Names For The Harvest Moon

The Harvest Moon takes the place of the Hunter’s Moon which is what the October full moon is usually called.

Usually moons are named because of the month they appear in and the things that occur locally around that time. Because the Harvest Moon can be in either September or October depending on which full moon is closest to the autumn equinox it doesn’t have any other names.

When To See The Harvest Moon

The Harvest Moon rises on 7th October at about 6.20pm. It is called a supermoon as it should appear bigger than usual. It isn’t actually bigger, it’s an optical illusion that can happen when the moon is closer to the horizon.

Symbolism Of The Harvest Moon

The Harvest Moon symbolises abundance, gratitude, preparation, hard work, renewal, focus, release, and reflection

I’ll be adding more to this post as and when I find any interesting little bits of information or when I think of something I’d like to add.