Exploring the Full Moons of 2026
- Ayla Kell
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
Their Meanings and Rituals for Spiritual Growth
The full moon has long captured human imagination, symbolizing cycles, change, and reflection. For those who follow lunar rhythms, each full moon in 2026 offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, deepen spiritual practice, and set intentions. This guide explores the dates of the full moons in 2026, their meanings, and practical rituals to harness their energy for personal growth.
The Full Moons of 2026 and Their Meanings
Each full moon carries a distinct energy influenced by the time of year, astrological sign, and cultural traditions. Many of the moon names came from what was happening in nature when it normally occurred. Understanding these meanings helps you align your intentions and rituals with the moon’s power. Each full moon gives you a unique opportunity to deepen your personal and spiritual connection to nature.
January 3 – Super Wolf Moon
The first full moon of the year is called the Wolf Moon, named for the howling wolves heard during winter nights. It represents strength, endurance, and new beginnings. This moon invites reflection on personal resilience and setting goals for the year ahead.
February 1 – Snow Moon
The Snow Moon marks the deep winter with heavy snowfall. It symbolizes purity, clarity, and emotional cleansing. This is a time to release emotional baggage and invite calmness.
March 3 – Worm Moon
As the earth begins to thaw, the Worm Moon signals rebirth and renewal. It encourages growth, fertility, and planting seeds—both literally and metaphorically.
April 1 – Pink Moon
Named after the pink wildflowers that bloom in spring, the Pink Moon represents love, joy, and creativity. It’s a perfect time to nurture relationships and creative projects.
May 1 – Flower Moon
The Flower Moon celebrates the abundance of blooming flowers. It symbolizes beauty, abundance, and gratitude. This moon encourages appreciation for life’s gifts.
May 31 – Blue Moon Bonus moon!
The term "blue moon" refers to an additional full moon that appears in a subdivision of a year. Traditionally, it signifies the second full moon occurring in a month that contains two full moons. The phrase "once in a blue moon" is commonly used to describe something that happens very rarely.
Symbolism of the Blue Moon
Rarity: The blue moon represents unique and rare events in life.
Opportunity: It is a time to seize opportunities that may not come around again.
Reflection: The blue moon encourages introspection and self-discovery.
Transformation: It symbolizes change and the potential for new beginnings.
In essence, the blue moon serves as a reminder to appreciate the extraordinary moments that life offers, much like the Flower Moon highlights the beauty and abundance of nature.
June 29 – Strawberry Moon
The Strawberry Moon coincides with the strawberry harvest. It stands for harvest, sweetness, and fulfillment. This is a moment to enjoy the fruits of your labor and reflect on achievements.
July 29 – Buck Moon
Named for the new antlers on male deer, the Buck Moon signifies growth, strength, and transformation. It’s a time to embrace change and personal power.
August 28 – Sturgeon Moon
The Sturgeon Moon is named after the large fish caught in this season. It symbolizes abundance, patience, and deep emotional insight. This moon invites you to dive into your feelings and practice patience.
September 26 – Harvest Moon
The Harvest Moon aligns with the corn harvest, representing nourishment, grounding, and preparation. It’s a time to focus on stability and practical matters.
October 26 – Hunter’s Moon
The Hunter’s Moon signals the start of hunting season. It stands for focus, courage, and resourcefulness. This moon encourages you to pursue your goals with determination.
November 24 – Beaver Moon
Named for beavers preparing for winter, the Beaver Moon symbolizes hard work, planning, and protection. It’s a moment to build strong foundations.
December 23 – Cold Moon
The final full moon of the year, the Cold Moon, represents reflection, rest, and closure. It invites you to review the year and prepare for new cycles.
Rituals to Connect with the Full Moon in 2026
Full moon rituals help you harness lunar energy for spiritual growth and grounding. These rituals are simple, adaptable, and focus on connecting with the earthy energy of the moon.
1. Moonlight Meditation
Find a quiet outdoor spot or sit by a window where you can see the full moon. Light candle or incense if that brings you joy. Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Visualize the moonlight filling you with calm and clarity. Focus on releasing what no longer serves you and welcoming new energy. (A go to meditation mantra for me is "I'm exhaling all of my fear, and inhaling abundance. I am so grateful for what is already on it's way to me.") I also like to set out clean water (from a faucet not in the bathroom!) with a lid out at the beginning of this ritual to drink the next day.
2. Release What Isn't Serving You
Write down what you want to release from your life. Be thorough and honest with yourself. Burn the list in the moonlight while using any mantra that aligns with what this new moon cycle is about for you. Use the full moon as a checkpoint to journal about your progress, challenges, intentions and insights. Reflect on the themes of the specific full moon and how they relate to your life. This practice supports self-awareness and growth.
3. Cleansing Bath Ritual
Prepare a warm bath with sea salt, lavender, or rose petals. As you soak, imagine the water washing away negativity and stress. Visualize the full moon’s light energizing your body and spirit.
4. Cleanse your environment
Clean your space, purge things that are no longer serving you, prune your plants, and sage your house (with the doors/windows open!) to really reset your space for this next cycle.
5. Earthy Grounding Practice
Connect with the earth by walking barefoot on grass, soil, or sand during the full moon. Feel the ground beneath you and imagine roots growing from your feet into the earth. This practice helps balance your energy and deepen your connection to nature.
6. SAY THANK YOU!
Thank the last phase of your life, the next phase of your life, and you - for showing up and doing it. Thank your spirit guide, the earth, and the amazing wonderful moon for the new start.
Practical Tips for Planning Your Full Moon Rituals
Prepare in advance: Gather materials like candles, incense, crystals, or herbs a few days before the full moon.
Create a sacred space: Choose a quiet, comfortable spot free from distractions.
Stay consistent: Regular full moon rituals build a stronger connection to lunar cycles.
Adapt rituals to your needs: Feel free to modify rituals to suit your spiritual path and preferences.
Don't overthink it! Any time set aside for your spiritual growth is valuable.
Embracing the Full Moon for Spiritual Growth
Starting a ritual practice of a deep check in once a month, twice in May this year, gives you an opportunity to monitor your growth. Even if you neglect your practice the rest of the month, use these special nights to connect back in!
I hope this brings you the same joy it brings me! I looooooooove the full moon practice I have. I didn't divulge ALL my secrets here, partially because I want you to find what serves you but also because it's very personal and special to me.
Gratefully,
ayla kell