Harvest Moon

I’m sure you’ve witnessed many times the beautiful spectacle of a moon rising, (and I’m not talking about that prankster we all know!) We’ve all heard the myths about the moon. Many people believe the changing of the moon causes strange behavior in people and animals. The increased light during a full moon may lead to greater activity in pets and wild animals. One source says many romantics believe it is a sign of true love, while another source says it affects the emotions and not a good time to start a relationship. The moon has been the subject of many songs, referring to mystery and love; dream makers and heartbreakers. The changing of the moon pulls on the tide, and apparently, on people’s hearts and personalities, too!

According to “google”, The Moon names used in The Old Farmer’s Almanac come from Native, Colonial or other traditional North American sources passed through generations reflecting seasonal changes. There is a new moon name for each month. My favourite is the Harvest Moon. The harvest moon, a beacon in the autumn night sky, captivates hearts and imaginations. Its romantic shades and luminous presence have inspired poetry, folklore, and moments of awe as the world is bathed in a magical golden glow. The harvest moon is a symbol of abundance and change of season.

The time for the Harvest Moon is coming up shortly. It is the bright full Moon that occurs closest to the autumn equinox. The name dates back to a time when farmers relied on the Moon›s bright light to finish harvesting crops late into the night. I have experienced harvesting under the moon as it rose to greet the world below. I have hauled grain from the combine in the middle of the night and saw the moons rays illuminate the darkness. It is easier to work when there is light. The Harvest Moon is special because, for several nights, it rises just after sunset and has extended periods of bright moonlight for several nights in a row.

This year, the brilliant Full Harvest Moon is on Monday, October 6th. According to the Farmers Almanac, it will appear full for three days, including the prior night of October 5 and the following night of October 7. This year’s Harvest Moon is also the first Supermoon of 2025, making it appear larger and brighter than usual. A supermoon is a full moon that occurs when the moon is closest to Earth. According to this definition, in 2025, the full Moons of October, November, and December all qualify as supermoons.

Watch for the faces of the moon. Over the generations, people have imagined faces or animals in the full moon. Here in Canada, it’s generally “the man in the moon”. Songs, poems and movies have been written about him.

A friend from Australia posted pictures of the moon on Facebook. It’s wonderful to think that we live on opposite sides of the world and we share the same moon!

The Harvest Moon, our companion in the night sky, has bewitched hearts and imaginations for centuries. Its silvery glow invites us to dream, to wonder, and to lose ourselves in its silent beauty.

Get ready to be awe struck, twitter pated or stay up all night! Happy harvest!