Hunter's Moon
The full moon after the Harvest Moon, for protection, preparation and honoring the ancestors.
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Where the name comes from
The Hunter's Moon is the first full moon after the Harvest Moon, usually in October. Like the Harvest Moon, the name has long been used in English-speaking farming communities and is listed by the Old Farmer's Almanac. Traditionally, this was the season to hunt and preserve meat for winter, using the bright moonlight over freshly cleared fields. Other traditional names for October's full moon include the Travel Moon and the Dying Grass Moon, both describing the turning of the year toward winter.
Hunter's Moon magick
In the Northern Hemisphere the Hunter's Moon rises as the veil grows thin before Samhain. Its themes are protection, preparation, focus and remembrance. This is a strong full moon for warding your home, for gathering what you need before winter, and for honoring your ancestors and the beloved dead. It also supports shadow work and divination, as the darkening season invites reflection. The hunter is patient and clear about the goal, so use this moon to sharpen your focus on what truly matters. Set aside what is wasteful, and prepare with care for the quiet months ahead.
Southern Hemisphere: In the Southern Hemisphere this full moon falls in mid-spring, so work with growth, fertility and the bright energy of Beltane instead.
Correspondences
A simple Hunter's Moon ancestor ritual
- Set a black candle on a fire-safe dish beside a photo or a small keepsake of someone you have lost. Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Place an obsidian in front of the candle. Light a small amount of dried mugwort in a heatproof dish, with a window open for airflow.
- Light a stick of dragon's blood incense for protection, and let its smoke move once around the edges of the room.
- Light the candle and speak to your ancestor as if they were in the room. Tell them what you are working toward and ask for their guidance.
- Sit quietly for a few minutes and note any thoughts or images that arise. Snuff the candle and write down what you noticed.
Journal prompts
- What do I need to gather or prepare before winter arrives?
- Which ancestor or loved one would I like to honor this season, and why?
- What am I ready to set down so I can focus on what truly matters?
Hunter's Moon dates
Shown in your time zone.
- Mon, Oct 26, 2026, 12:12 AM ETHunter's Moon in Taurus
- Fri, Oct 15, 2027, 9:48 AM ETHunter's Moon in Aries
- Thu, Nov 2, 2028, 5:18 AM ETHunter's Moon in Taurus
- Mon, Oct 22, 2029, 5:28 AM ETMicromoon in Aries
- Fri, Oct 11, 2030, 6:47 AM ETHunter's Moon in Aries
- Thu, Oct 30, 2031, 3:33 AM ETHunter's Moon in Taurus
- Mon, Oct 18, 2032, 2:59 PM ETHunter's Moon in Aries
- Sat, Oct 8, 2033, 6:59 AM ETSupermoon in Aries
- Fri, Oct 27, 2034, 8:43 AM ETSupermoon in Taurus
- Tue, Oct 16, 2035, 10:36 PM ETHunter's Moon in Aries
- Mon, Nov 3, 2036, 7:45 PM ETHunter's Moon in Taurus
- Sat, Oct 24, 2037, 12:37 AM ETHunter's Moon in Taurus
- Wed, Oct 13, 2038, 12:22 AM ETHunter's Moon in Aries
- Mon, Oct 31, 2039, 6:37 PM ETHunter's Moon in Taurus
- Sat, Oct 20, 2040, 12:50 AM ETHunter's Moon in Aries