This is the true meaning behind the Pink Moon in April
Having just witnessed the marvel that was March’s full blue moon, we’re pleased to share that we have another colorful lunar event to look forward to. April’s full Pink Moon will take to the sky on April 29th. Yes, a Pink Moon sounds like something that would only take place outside the window of Barbie’s Dreamhouse, but the Pink Moon is very real, although — spoiler alert — the moon won’t actually be pink. So what’s with the rosy name? What’s the Pink Moon meaning?
According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the Pink Moon is called such because it’s at this time of year when one of the first spring flowers, “moss pink,” also called creeping phlox, begins to bloom.
We can thank the Native Americans for naming April’s Pink Moon as well as the other eleven full moons throughout the year. And because there were so many tribes across North America, full moons often have different names based on region. For example, the Pink Moon is also called Sprouting Grass Moon, Egg Moon, and Fish Moon. Moon names often have to do with activities and events that occur within the coinciding month.
The European Colonists adopted the Native American full moon names, and thankfully, the names were preserved and passed on.
If you happen to miss the Pink Moon, don’t worry. In May, the full Flower Moon will rise. And after that, June’s Strawberry Moon takes its turn. There are plenty of fun full moons to go around.
The Pink Moon’s peak will be at 8:58 p.m. EST on April 29th. And although it won’t be pink in color, the full moon is always a beauty to look at.
