The Strawberry Moon is the popular name for the full moon in June. The name comes not from its colour but from Native American and European traditions, where this full moon marked the time of year when strawberries were ripe for harvest.
In 2025, this full moon is even more significant as it marks the final full moon of the spring season in the Northern Hemisphere, just before the summer solstice.
Strawberry Moon 2025 Date
The Strawberry Moon will rise on June 11, 2025. This will be the last full moon of the spring season, and many reports state that this moon is going to be extra special as it will also be the lowest full moon in nearly 20 years.
What is a Strawberry Moon, and why is it called that?
Despite the name, the Strawberry Moon does not appear pink or red. The term comes from Native American and European traditions, where the June full moon marked the time to harvest ripening strawberries in the region. It’s a seasonal name given to the moon, and it has nothing to do with its colour.
This year’s Strawberry Moon coincides with a rare lunar standstill, making it appear unusually low in the sky, which may give it a warm, golden glow, especially when it rises near the horizon.
Will the Strawberry Moon be visible in India? Here’s when to look up
Yes, the Strawberry Moon will be visible in India, depending on the weather conditions. Skygazers may look towards the southeastern horizon just after sunset on June 11, at around 7:00 PM IST. It will rise slowly and stay visible throughout the night.
Tip: Use a pair of binoculars or a telescope for a better view, or capture it with your smartphone in night mode.
Best places to see the Strawberry Moon in India
To get the best view of this rare full moon, choose a location with minimal light pollution and a clear horizon view. Some ideal spots include:
- Ladakh and Spiti Valley – clear skies and high altitudes
- Desert areas of Rajasthan – wide-open horizons
- Hill stations like Ooty, Munnar, or Darjeeling
- Outskirts of cities like Pune, Bengaluru, or Hyderabad
- Beaches in Goa, Andaman, or Puri
For city dwellers, rooftops or parks with open skies are your best bet.
Where and when to watch the Strawberry Moon in India
The Strawberry Moon will rise on June 11 (Wednesday) and will be visible across India shortly after sunset. In most Indian cities, you can look towards the southeastern sky after 7:00 PM IST to witness it. The moon will appear larger and more golden than usual, especially when it is low on the horizon.
For the best view:
- Find an open space away from city lights.
- Use binoculars or a telescope for a closer look.
- You can also stream it online via platforms like TimeandDate.com or NASA’s official livestream, if available.
Why is this year's Strawberry Moon so special?
The 2025 Strawberry Moon is special because it is the lowest full moon in nearly two decades. This happens due to a rare celestial event known as a “Major Lunar Standstill”.
During this time, the moon’s path in the sky appears lower and more tilted than usual. As a result, it rises and sets at extreme positions on the horizon.
This phenomenon only occurs once every 18.6 years. So, if you miss it this year, you will not get another chance until 2043.