Skywatchers, get ready for one of the most captivating celestial shows of the year the Buck Moon 2025‘ is set to illuminate the skies this July, marking the brightest and most spiritually symbolic full moon of the summer.
On Thursday, July 10, at around 4:37 p.m., the July 2025 full moon will be at its brightest. ET, according to EarthSky. Although the moon will be below the horizon during its technical peak in many parts of North America, viewers will experience its stunning glow just after sunset, when it rises above the eastern horizon.
What Is the Buck Moon? A Name Rooted in Nature
If you’re wondering what is the Buck Moon, its origins are deeply tied to nature and indigenous traditions. The term “Buck Moon” comes from the period when male deer (bucks) begin growing new antlers—a symbol of growth, renewal, and strength. This name has been passed down through generations, notably recognized by The Old Farmer’s Almanac and Native American tribes.
Other traditional names for the July full moon include:
- The Cree Tribe refers to the falling of bird feathers as the “molting moon.”
- The Tlingit Tribe uses Salmon Moon to commemorate the salmon’s seasonal return.
These cultural interpretations highlight how the Buck Moon 2025 is not just an astronomical event, but also a meaningful seasonal marker.
When to See the Buck Moon 2025 for Best Visibility
The best time to see the Buck Moon 2025 will be on the night of July 10, just after sunset. While the moon hits its peak earlier in the day, the most visually striking view comes in the early evening, when it rises over the eastern horizon.
According to NASA’s planetary experts, the moon will appear full for about a day before and after its official peak—so if you miss it on the 10th, you’ll still have a chance to catch its glow on July 9 or 11.
For the best experience, choose a location with an unobstructed view of the eastern sky and minimal light pollution.
More Than a Moon: A Spiritual and Celestial Moment
The July full moon spiritual meaning adds a powerful dimension to this event. Often associated with renewal, transformation, and masculine energy, the Buck Moon encourages reflection, strength, and taking bold steps forward, just like the bucks growing new antlers in the wild.
In spiritual communities, this moon is considered a time for goal-setting and inner growth. It’s often tied to the energy of progress, making it a great time to re-focus and re-align personal intentions.
Moon Phases in July 2025 and What’s Next
Here’s a quick look at the moon phases for July 2025:
- First Quarter: July 3
- Full Moon (Buck Moon): July 10
- Last Quarter: July 17
- New Moon: July 24
Plus, there’s even more to look forward to. Venus, Jupiter, and Mars will appear later in the month, offering additional reasons to keep your eyes on the sky. Notably, Mars will be visible next to a crescent moon on July 28, right after sunset.
Looking Ahead: Full Moons Still to Come in 2025
If you enjoy tracking lunar events, mark your calendars for these upcoming full moons in 2025:
- August 9 – Sturgeon Moon
- September 7 – Corn Moon
- October 6 – Harvest Moon (Supermoon)
- November 5 – Beaver Moon (Supermoon)
- December 4 – Cold Moon (Supermoon)
These upcoming moons are part of an exciting celestial lineup, with three supermoons closing out the year—offering even larger and brighter appearances than usual.