Mark your calendars, Iksporers!
This Thursday, October 17th, marks the peak of the Full Hunter's Moon, the third of four consecutive supermoons this year. At its closest point, the Hunter’s Moon will be just 222,055 miles from Earth, making it the nearest and brightest Supermoon of the year! It will shine brightly and appear nearly full from October 16th to 18th, giving you multiple chances to catch this spectacular sight.
The Hunter’s Moon is the perfect reason to plan an epic stargazing party with your family. Our favorite part about this full moon? You don’t have to stay up past bedtime to enjoy it! Plus, the cool fall weather is much more accommodating than winter nights. (We’re always thinking like moms!)
A full moon is most stunning when it rises on the eastern horizon just after the sun sets in the west. During this time, the Hunter’s Moon will appear larger than usual and take on a beautiful, muted orange hue. The best time to view it is just a few minutes after moonrise. For the best experience, find a clear view of the eastern horizon, and enjoy its brilliant orange glow as it rises into the sky!
Moonrise on Thursday, October 17
- Eastern Time (New York): Sunset at 6:13 p.m. EDT, moonrise at 6:14 p.m. EDT
- Central Time (Chicago): Sunset at 6:12 p.m. CDT, moonrise at 6:21 p.m. CDT
- Mountain Time (Denver): Sunset at 6:22 p.m. MDT, moonrise at 6:31 p.m. MDT
- Pacific Time (Los Angeles): Sunset at 6:17 p.m. PDT, moonrise at 6:26 p.m. PDT
Image from The Old Farmer’s Almanac
Here are five fun facts about the Hunters’ Moon that we learned from Farmer’s Almanac and suggestions to make your stargazing party special.
- Brightest of the Season: The Hunter's Moon is often brighter and rises earlier than most full moons. This year, it provides more evening light, making it perfect for nighttime adventures like stargazing, camping, or evening hikes.
- Historical Significance: Traditionally, the Hunter’s Moon signaled the time for hunters to prepare for winter by tracking game under its bright light. The bare trees and cleared farm fields offered perfect visibility of fattened deer, as well as foxes and coyotes that preyed on them. Families can learn about the historical connection of this moon to preparing for the colder months ahead.
- Name Origins: The Hunter’s Moon gets its name from Native American tribes and early European settlers, who used the extra light to track and hunt animals after the harvest season. This is a great opportunity to teach kids about how people long ago lived in harmony with the changing seasons.
- Rises at the Same Time for a Few Days: Unlike other full moons, the Hunter's Moon rises around the same time for several days in a row, which means more opportunities to enjoy its glow over multiple evenings.
- Perfect for Wildlife Watching: Animals are often more active under a full moon, so it’s a great time for families to observe wildlife. Encourage kids to listen for nocturnal creatures like owls and take in the beauty of nature under the moonlit sky.
Location: Finding the Perfect Spot for Stargazing
The location of your stargazing party is key for making the most of the Full Hunter’s Moon. You’ll want to find a spot away from city lights—light pollution can dim the moon and stars, reducing visibility. Try to find a spot with a clear view of the eastern horizon, such as a high vantage point or an east-facing coastline, for the best view of the rising Hunter's Moon—weather permitting. Ideal locations include campgrounds, hiking trails, or large parks. Anywhere far from artificial lighting allows the moon's glow to truly shine. For those who can’t make it out into nature, don’t worry! Even your backyard or a local park can be great alternatives. You can make it an adventure from the back of your tailgate, set up a lawn chair in your front yard, or find a peaceful spot on your balcony to enjoy the view. Anywhere outdoors is perfect for moon-gazing with your kids!
Snacks: Essential for an Epic Stargazing Party
No family gathering is complete without snacks! If you're camping, bring along the classics like s'mores or roasted marshmallows. If a campfire isn't possible, think of grab-and-go treats like trail mix, fruit, cookies, or granola bars, which can be enjoyed while gazing upwards. Because this full moon can be viewed earlier in the evening, you could even make a MOON pizza with your family! The possibilities are endless. And for chilly fall evenings, nothing beats a thermos of hot chocolate or apple cider to keep everyone cozy. These simple treats add to the magical experience of spending time outdoors beneath the Hunter's Moon.
Clothing: Stay Warm and Cozy Under the Stars
Clothing is just as important for a successful night out under the stars. Layering is key as the evening temperatures can dip. We might be biased, but nothing beats 100% merino wool—it’s breathable, soft, and keeps you warm, even if the weather gets cool. Our hoodies, tees, and joggers made from our durable merino wool are a great option for a mid-layer and perfect for bundling up while you enjoy the evening sky. Make sure everyone in the family is comfortably dressed, as cozy layers will let you stay outside longer, making more memories under the moonlight. Don’t forget the blankets!
Hunter's Moon: Embracing Nature's Cycles
Gather your family and take the opportunity to view the upcoming Hunter’s Moon. It’s more than just a bright full moon—it marks a connection to nature’s cycles and provides a moment to reflect on the changing seasons. Use this time to appreciate the beauty of the night sky and celebrate being present with the ones you love most.
Cherish the Moment: Core Memories with Your Family
At the heart of your stargazing party is togetherness. While the snacks, clothing, and location help set the stage, what your family will remember most is the time spent together under the awe-inspiring glow of the Hunter’s Moon. The little details won’t stick, but the excitement and wonder your kids feel as they gaze up at the moon and stars will. These are core memories being made, and the shared experience of being outdoors together is the most important part of it all.