May’s “Flower Moon”: When & Where to See It

2nd May 2023
May’s “Flower Moon”: When & Where to See It

May’s full moon is approaching full bloom! The lunar spectacle, commonly known as the Flower Moon, will appear over the UK on Thursday, 23rd May, at 1.53 pm. To watch the Flower Moon, find an open space with an unobstructed view of the horizon. Ideally, you should get to a location away from city lights to have the best view. If the weather is clear, you can see it with the naked eye.

Why It’s Named “Flower Moon”?

how to see May's Flower Moon
Credit: YUI MOK, PA via AP
An Emirates Air Line cable cars is silhouetted against the backdrop of the supermoon in Greenwich, London on Feb. 19, 2019

Dubbed the “Flower Moon,” this full moon celebrates the abundance of blossoming flowers that appear during the month of May in the Northern Hemisphere. The name was originally given by the Algonquin tribes, who used it as a marker for the beginning of the planting season. Other Native American tribes also had their own names for the May full moon, such as the “Corn Planting Moon,” “Milk Moon,” and “Hare Moon.”

Full Moon Folklore

Flower Moon in the UK
Credit: OWEN HUMPHREYS, PA via AP
A supermoon sets as seen from Whitley Bay, England, as the sun begins to rise, early on Feb. 19, 2019.

Throughout history, full moons have been a source of fascination and inspiration for people all over the world. In many cultures, full moons are associated with significant events, changes in nature, and spiritual beliefs. Here are some examples of Full Moon Folklore:

  • In ancient China, the full moon was associated with family reunions and harvest celebrations.
  • In Greek mythology, the full moon was connected to the goddess Artemis, who was the goddess of the moon and hunting.
  • In India, the full moon is celebrated as Buddha Purnima, which is the day Buddha was born, attained enlightenment, and died.
  • In European folklore, the Flower Moon was associated with love and marriage. Couples would collect flowers and dance together under the full moon, believing that the moon’s energy would bless their union. Additionally, the Flower Moon was a time for women to gather herbs and flowers, which were then used to make potions and ointments for healing.

So, why don’t you take a moment to step outside and bask in the gentle glow of the Flower Moon this Friday?

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