December Full Moon 2024: Diving in the Cold Magic of Long Nights

December is the month when winter really comes into its own, wrapping the world in a frosty fairy tale. The nights get longer and the days get shorter, and we curl up in a soft armchair with a warm drink in our hands, waiting for Christmas and the New Year holidays. But before they come, another miracle awaits us — the December full moon, also known as the “Cold or “Long Night Moon”.

We invite you to dive into the magic of the Cold full moon to uncover the secrets of this celestial phenomenon, ancient traditions and beliefs associated with it, and share the tips on how to best enjoy this magical night and experience its unique energy.

Why Is the December Moon Called the Сold Moon?

The cold moon name comes from Native American traditions, where the monthly plenilunio was given a name based on seasonal changes in nature. For Native Americans, the Full Moon in December signaled the arrival of winter’s chill, when frost freezes the ground, days grow short and overcast, and nights become long and harsh. This marked the time when tribes would start gathering supplies for the winter and insulating their homes in preparation for the challenges of the season.

What Else Do They Call the December Cold Moon?

Cold Moon is the most popular name for the December plenilune, but it’s not the only one. In different parts of the world, you can find other, rarer names for this phenomenon, reflecting local traditions and natural features.

Long Nights Moon (Nordic)

December Cold Moon often occurs around the winter solstice, the shortest day and longest night of the year. For this reason, northern peoples have called it the Long Nights Moon. This name reflects the cyclical nature of the seasons, where the period of darkness reaches its peak before the days start to lengthen again.

Moon Before Yule (German)

This name is connected to the ancient Germanic winter solstice celebration – Yule. Yule symbolized the rebirth of the sun and the beginning of a new cycle, and the plenilune before Yule was considered a time for purification and preparation for the holiday.

Oak Moon (Celtic)

In Celtic traditions, the oak symbolized strength, endurance, and longevity. The December Full Moon, occurring during the winter solstice when nature falls into slumber, was associated with the strength and resilience of the oak, able to withstand any frost.

Christmas Moon (West European)

This name is often used by Christians due to the proximity of the plenilune to Catholic Christmas (25 December). This creates an association of the plenilune with the festive atmosphere, magic, and the miracle of birth. The lunar light illuminating the Christmas night echoes the symbolism of light in Christian tradition, where Jesus is called the “Light of the World.”

When Was the Last Full Moon on Сhristmas?

The last time the plenilune occurred on Christmas was in 2015. This is a rather rare event, happening approximately once every 19 years. Before 2015, the last Christmas full moon was in 1977. If you missed it in 2015, you’ll have to wait until 2034 to see the next one!

When Is the Full Moon in December 2024?

The full moon in December 2024 will be on Sunday, 15 December, at 09:02 GMT, 17:02 UTC. However, we will be able to observe it for 1-2 days before and after this date. Why?

Strictly speaking, plenilune is the moment when our satellite is directly opposite the Sun. Before and after this moment, its disc is no longer fully illuminated. However, the difference in brightness is very minimal and almost imperceptible to the naked eye. Therefore, the full moon in December 2024 will be visible from around December 13 to 17, depending on the observer’s location.

The next full moon in December will be on Thursday, 4 December 2025. Popular weather sites like timeanddate.com and spaceweatherlive.com can help you to follow the full moon calendar. Don’t miss these days, they are truly magical!

Why Is the December Full Moon Special?

In December, during the winter solstice, our moon rises higher above the horizon than at other times of the year. This is due to the tilt of the Earth’s axis. Thanks to its higher position, as well as the typically clear and crisp winter weather, the December plenilune may appear larger and brighter to us.

The connection with the winter solstice, when the night slowly begins to give way to day, gives the December plenilune an additional mystical touch. The world seems to become an unwitting witness to the invisible battle between darkness and light, where light triumphs, symbolizing a new beginning.

And finally, the full moon falling around Christmas time creates a truly magical atmosphere, filled with mystery and the anticipation of a miracle. It is believed that on this night, the heavens open, and one can make the most cherished wish, which is sure to come true. Isn’t that magic?

What Is the Spiritual Meaning of The Cold Moon? 

In many cultures, the full cold moon is associated with introspection (from the Latin “introspicio” – to look within), letting go of the past, and setting intentions for the future. December full moon astrology suggests that this is the perfect time for deep inner work and connecting with subtle energies. Imagine how lunar light illuminates the darkness, not only of the external world but also within us. It offers an opportunity to release what no longer serves us – whether it’s negative thoughts, limiting beliefs, or unhealthy relationships. By letting go of the unnecessary, we create space for new beginnings and growth in the year ahead.

How to Prepare for the Cold Full Moon: Rituals and Ceremonies 

Here are some of the most popular rituals and ceremonies traditionally observed during the December Cold Moon, which you can incorporate if you wish:

1. Cleansing and Releasing Ritual
   
   Space Cleansing: Begin by energetically cleansing your home with the help of lit candles, herbs (such as sage or mugwort), or sound (bells or singing bowls). This will help clear away negative energy accumulated over the year, creating space for new, positive energy.
   
   Letting Go of the Unnecessary: Write down all the things you want to release—whether fears, grudges, or bad habits—on a piece of paper and burn it in the flame of a candle, visualizing the removal of all that no longer serves you.
   
   Cleansing Bath: Take a bath with sea salt, essential oils, or herbs to cleanse both your body and aura from accumulated negativity.
   
2. Wish Fulfillment Ritual
   Write your wishes clearly on paper, either as written words or drawings, while visualizing them coming true. Place the list under the moonlight overnight, then keep it in a visible place to remind you of your goals.
   
3. Gratitude and Forgiveness Ritual
   Take a moment to thank the Universe, your loved ones, and yourself for all the good that has happened in the past year. Let go of any grudges or negative emotions you’ve carried with you, as forgiveness is an important step toward spiritual growth and inner peace.
   
4. Rituals for Harmony and Well-Being
   Engage in a series of yoga poses, relaxation exercises, or meditation practices under the lunar light. These practices help release tension, calm your mind, find inner balance, and connect you with the energies of the Universe.

It’s important to remember that rituals and ceremonies are not magic in the literal sense – they are tools to help us focus on our desires and intentions. The key is to approach them with faith, an open heart, and a clear mind, and then watch as your intentions begin to manifest.

The Winter Magic Is Coming 

The December Full Moon is a time of magic, mysticism, anticipation, and hope. As we gaze at the glow of the Cold Moon during the long winter nights, awaiting Christmas and the New Year, we can better understand ourselves, let go of the past, and look to the future with hope. Don’t miss the chance to step into a fairy tale where dreams come true and bring harmony and light into your life!

References and Additional Information:

• Full Moon December 2024 – Cold Moon and Alternative Names https://www.farmersalmanac.com/december-full-cold-moon
• 2024 Full Moon calendar: When to see the Full Moon and phases https://www.astronomy.com/observing/full-moon-calendar-dates-times-types/
• Ritual for the Cold Moon https://www.spiritualityhealth.com/ritual-for-the-cold-moon
• Why the December Cold Moon Will Be So Significant, According to an Astrologer https://www.popsugar.com/astrology/cold-moon-meaning-48645910