Harvest Moon 2026: When to see September’s full moon
The Harvest Moon rises Saturday night, Sept. 26. Here’s why it gets its name, how it relates to the autumn equinox and what to expect.
Two astronomy events will occur this week. The first is the equinox on Sept. 22, marking the start of astronomical fall in the Northern Hemisphere. Shortly after, the Harvest Moon rises on Sept. 26.
One of the most recognizable full moons of the year will rise Saturday night as the Harvest Moon lights up the early autumn sky.
The Harvest Moon is the nickname given to the full moon that occurs closest to the autumnal equinox, which arrives this year at 8:05 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, Sept. 22.
The full moon will be visible Saturday night, Sept. 26, rising around sunset and remaining in the sky through much of the night.
The full harvest super moon rises above trees near Moscow Mountain, Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, in Moscow, Idaho. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)
The Harvest Moon earned its name long ago as it was helpful to farmers working in the fields after sunset.
"For several evenings, the moon rises very soon after the sun sets, resulting in an abundance of bright moonlight early in the evening. Traditionally, this extra light aided farmers and crews in harvesting their summer-grown crops," The Old Farmer's Almanac explained.
The September full moon has several other traditional nicknames, including the Corn Moon, Autumn Moon, Falling Leaves Moon and Rutting Moon.
People watching shortly after moonrise may notice the moon taking on shades of yellow or orange near the horizon. This happens because moonlight has to travel through more of Earth's atmosphere when the moon is low in the sky, scattering some colors before the light reaches the viewer.
As the moon climbs higher during the evening, it typically loses much of the orange tint and appears brighter and whiter against the night sky.
The full harvest moon rises behind downtown buildings, Friday, Sept. 9, 2022, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
No special equipment is needed to see the Harvest Moon. Anyone with a clear view of the sky Saturday night should be able to enjoy the final full moon of September.
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