This year we are expected to experience many amazing full moons. The full moon in October is known as Hunter’s Moon!
WHEN CAN I SEE THE HUNTER’S MOON?
The peak illumination of the Hunter’s Moon will be at 4:55 pm on Sunday, October 9th. Like the Harvest Full Moon of September, the Hunter’s Moon rises multiple nights in a row! This moon might appear larger and orange when it rises above the horizon right after sunset - perfect for fall!
WHY IS IT CALLED THE HUNTER’S MOON?
According to The Old Farmer's Almanac:
“It is believed that this full Moon came to be called the full Hunter’s Moon because it signaled the time to go hunting in preparation for the cold winter ahead. Animals are beginning to fatten up ahead of winter, and since the farmers had recently cleaned out their fields under the Harvest Moon, hunters could easily see the deer and other animals that had come out to root through the remaining scraps (as well as the foxes and wolves that had come out to prey on them).”
WHAT CAN I DO FOR SOME FAMILY "HUNTER’S MOON" FUN?
Beyond just going outside to experience the Hunter’s Moon viewing, here's a few ideas for ways to engage your kids in the experience:
1. Carve Moon Pumpkins -
To celebrate the large, orange full moon and October, carve or decorate pumpkins to look like moons!
2. Go on a “hunt” -
Create some backyard or front yard fun by designing a hunt for treasures, treats or simply nature.
3. Read Good Night Moon -
If it's not already part of your regular reading rotation, now is a great time to break out that copy of this children's bedtime classic. Notice how the moon in the window is different from the moon in the picture in the room. And don't forget to hunt for that little young mouse on every page!
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