A little science, a little folklore, and some Local lunar adventure.
March’s Full Blood Worm Moon was nothing short of spectacular—and not nearly as gross as it sounds. Just check out Jay Berman’s photo from March 14th. The name might make you think of something out of a horror movie, but in reality, it’s a mix of astronomy and seasonal shifts.
First, the “Blood” part—when a total lunar eclipse occurs, the Earth lines up perfectly between the Sun and the Moon, casting the Moon into deep shadow. But instead of disappearing, it glows a haunting reddish hue. Why? Because there is still light reaching it, reflected from Earth, where our atmosphere filters out blue light, leaving behind warm, sunset-like tones.
And the “Worm” part? 🪱 That’s pure early spring magic. As the ground starts to thaw in March, earthworms wriggle back to the surface—a sure sign that the long, frozen months are giving way to warmer days. Other traditional names for March’s full moon, like the Wind Moon, Sap Moon, and Catch Fish Moon, each paint a picture of nature stirring back to life.
🌕 A Lunar Legacy 🌙
From ancient times to now, humans have looked to the full moon for guidance, inspiration, and rhythm. Across cultures, lunar names reflect the land, wildlife, and spiritual beliefs of the people who named them.
In North America, the full moon names many of us recognize today are drawn from Native American, Colonial American, and other Indigenous traditions—each capturing something special about the changing seasons.
Take April’s “Pink Moon”, for example. It’s named for the early blooms of wild ground phlox, a bright pink flower that signals spring in full swing. But this moon also goes by names like “Budding Moon” and “Breaking Ice Moon”—all different ways of describing the same seasonal shift. No matter the name, the full moon has always been a way for people to connect to nature’s cycles.
Each of these names carries the wisdom of those who lived by the land—paying attention to crops, animals, and the shifting skies.
Full Moon Magic (No Witchcraft Required!) 🪄✨
Think full moon energy is just for witches and werewolves? Think again. Full moons are a time of gratitude and reflection, a moment to pause and soak in all that has come to light. Every full moon carries its own unique energy—and you don’t have to be mystical to feel it.
Want to tap into the magic? It’s as simple as creating a small ritual that feels meaningful to you. It could be:
🔥 Gathering around a bonfire
🛁 Taking a relaxing herbal bath
🌿 Cooking a meal with seasonal ingredients
🧘 Practicing meditation, breathwork, or movement
😴 Even just taking a long, intentional nap under moonlight!
And the best part? You don’t have to do it alone. As the weather warms up, parks, nature centers, and local groups offer great opportunities for those who want to experience the full moon in communion with others. 👇💡🚀 Scroll down for a list of local full moon activities!
⬆️👀 Look Up, Dream Big 🌠🌎
The full moon is a gift—one that’s been lighting our nights and inspiring our spirits for millennia. No matter where you are, or what’s on your mind, when you look up at that glowing circle in the sky, you’re connected to something vast, ancient, and full of possibility. Next time the moon is full, take a moment. Step outside. Breathe deep. Let the wonder of the skies wash over you. ✨
🙌 PINK MOON RISING 🩷🌕
April’s full moon peaks in Philly at 8:22 PM on Saturday, April 12. This year, it’s a Micromoon, aka “at apogee” which is its farthest point from Earth (more than 250k miles away). While it might appear slightly smaller than usual, it will still shine brightly. This year, the Pink Moon occurs under the zodiac sign of ♎ Libra, which astrologers say relates to love, harmony and balance. 💞🙏⚖️
Fun Fact: full moon names applied to the entire lunar month, marking seasonal shifts. With that in mind, here’s what’s ahead for 2025’s full moons:
🌼🌕♏ May 12th – Flower Moon in Scorpio (rebirth and emotional release)
🍓🌕♐June 11th – Strawberry Moon in Sagittarius (expansion and adventure)
🦌🌕♑ July 10th – Buck Moon in Capricorn (responsibility and priorities)
🦈🌕♒ August 9th – Sturgeon Moon in Aquarius (vision and community)
🌽🌕♓ September 7th – Corn Moon in Pisces (change and spiritual insight)
🏹🌕♈ October 7th – Hunter’s Moon in Aries (courage and decisive action)
🦫🌕♉ November 5th – Beaver Moon in Taurus (authenticity and personal values)
🌬️🌕♊ December 4th – Cold Moon in Gemini (communication and innovation)
Each moon tells a story, connecting us to the rhythms of nature. And when you behold April’s Pink Micromoon, remember that even a distant glow reflects countless dreams and possibilities. ✨
🌕Philly Full Moon Happenings 🌙
Like the full moon itself, these events are recurring. Schedule as needed for well-being and empowerment.
🔊 Full Moon Sound Bath
The soothing sounds of musician Sean Youngman guides us into deep relaxation with a blend of tones, timbres, and rhythms—a true cellular massage through sound. This session includes guided breathing and gentle yoga flow, scientifically proven to lower anxiety and blood pressure. 🌿✨
📅 April 15 | 7:30 PM
💰 $30
📍 Mishana Yoga at the Falls Center, 3300 Henry Ave
📲 @mishanayoga
🚴♀️ Philly Full Moon Bike Ride
Adventure, cycling solidarity, and the freedom of the open road—all under a glowing full moon. Each month features a new route, with start times adjusting based on moonrise. Meet at the Art Museum (unless noted otherwise) and enjoy a night of fun, camaraderie, and city lights. 🌃✨
📅 April 12 (8 PM)
🔞 21+ | Free | BYOB
📍 Philadelphia Museum of Art (starting point)
📲 @CycleScenePHL
🔭 The Sky Tonight at Fels Planetarium
Step inside the Franklin Institute’s 60-foot dome for an immersive look at the actual night sky—no light pollution, clouds, or city glare to get in the way. On April 12, take in awe-inspiring full moon views from the best seat in town. 🌠
📅 April 12 | Shows at 12 PM & 2 PM
💰 $29 (includes museum admission)
📍 Franklin Institute, 222 N. 20th St.
📲 @franklininstitute
💻 VIRTUAL: Full Moon Circle
Join astrologer and energy coach Danielle Krey for a free monthly Zoom gathering exploring the cosmic themes of each lunar cycle. Includes energy exercises to help you harmonize with the full moon’s dynamic influence. 🌕🔮
📅 Follow @sparkyspirit.life for schedule & Zoom link
🌾 Further Afield (But Worth the Trip!)
🐺 Full Moon Fundraiser at the Wolf Sanctuary of PA (Lititz, PA)
Spend an unforgettable evening with expertly cared-for gray wolves and wolf-dogs on an 80+ acre nature reserve in the heart of PA Dutch Country. Enjoy a bonfire, entertainment, and interactive learning, all while supporting the Wolves of Speedwell. 🐾🌕
📅 April 12 | 6:30 – 9 PM
💰 $35 (supports wolf conservation)
🔞 Ages 16+
📍 Wolf Sanctuary of PA, Lititz, PA (about 90 mins from Philly)
📲 @WolfSanctuaryPA
🌲 Full Moon Walks at Peace Valley Nature Center (Doylestown, PA)
Stroll under the moonlit sky through this Bucks County wildlife preserve, learning how the full moon’s glow affects nature. Includes a guided tour through forests and fields surrounding Lake Galena. Less than an hour from Philly! 🌿🌕
📅 April 12 | 7:30 – 8:30 PM
💰 $5 (non-members)
📍 Peace Valley Nature Center, Doylestown, PA
What do you think? Do you have a favorite full moon ritual or insight? Please share it in the comments below. Click the links in this post for deeper dives into full moon lore and science.
⭐ FEATURE IMAGE CREDIT: Jay S. Berman is a retiree with a passion for photography. He can usually be found taking pictures of the eagles at Connowingo Dam in MD. 🙏
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