Harvest Moon 2025: Why is it in October instead of September this year

The harvest moon of 2025 will light up in the sky on 6 October, which will mark one of the most bright and most beautiful full moon of the year. Interestingly, this year’s harvest moon is visible in October, not in September – a rare but completely natural phenomenon. Why does this happen here and does it make it special.

What is crop moon?

Harvest is the name given to Moon Purnima that is closest to the autumn equinox, usually falling around 22 September.

Centuries ago, this Chandra provided additional evening lights to farmers to harvest their crops, helping them to work later at night. Over time, it is known as harvest moon – symbol of abundance and changes of seasons.

Why is this in October 2025?

While the harvest moon usually appears in September, it can sometimes fall in early October. The time depends on the month, but on which the full moon is closest to the autumn equinox.

In 2025, the full moon of September took place on 7 September, about two weeks before the Equinox – very early to acquire the title. The next full moon is, on 6 October, exactly after the equinox, which makes it closer and officially the 2025 crop moon.

This change is due to minor changes about the Moon’s 29.5-day orbit and how its cycle aligns with the solar calendar every year. These natural adjustments sometimes push harvest moon in October, as they did this year.

Historically, 1 October Harvest Moon is rare, and is based on the pattern of the current lunar-chakra, such a October events usually repeat every two to three years. The last time it was one, was in 2020, and astronomical forecasts suggest that Harvest Moon will be in 2028 in next October.

A rare supermoon appearance

Adding to enthusiasm, tonight’s harvest moon is also one Super moon – This means when the Moon is near the nearest point of the earth in its orbit.

Due to this proximity, the moon will appear bigger and brighter than normal, glowing with a warm golden color because it rises on the horizon. StarGazers may expect a breathtaking scene immediately after sunset.

When and how to see Harvest Moon tonight

Harvest moon will rise around sunset On Monday, October 6, and through the night.

For the best viewing experience:

• Look at the eastern horizon after sunset.
• Choose a clear, open area away from artificial lights.
• The Moon will appear especially golden or orange when it is low in the sky, gradually brighter because it grows more.

In India, Europe and North America, audiences should have excellent visibility, weather permission.