Origins of the Name “Strawberry Moon”
When June’s full moon rises, the world is sweet with sun-warmed days and nature’s abundance. Known as the Strawberry Moon, this lunar event marks a time of ripening—both in the fruiting fields and within ourselves.
The name Strawberry Moon comes from Algonquin and other northeastern Native American tribes. It signaled the short but precious strawberry-picking season—a time when wild strawberries would be harvested under the glowing full moon.
Though the moon itself doesn’t appear pink or red, the name reflects the natural cycle of abundance and sweetness, as the earth yields its first fruits. This moon reminds us to savor what is good, to harvest joy, and to live fully in the now.
June’s full moon goes by many names around the world, all tied to the turning point between late spring and early summer:
Celtic Tradition: Known as the Moon of Horses, honoring strength, vitality, and sacred animal connections.
Anglo-Saxon: Called the Mead Moon, referring to the time of mead-making from honey—a drink often associated with celebration and union.
European Tradition: Sometimes called the Rose Moon, as many varieties of roses bloom during this time, symbolizing love and the beauty of the season.
Chinese Lunar Calendar: Often marks the time around the Dragon Boat Festival, linked to the protection of life, water rituals, and summer preparation.
Wiccan/Pagan Traditions: Referred to as the Lovers' Moon or Honey Moon, a time of handfasting ceremonies and sacred unions.
Each of these names reflects sensuality, sweetness, and the full-hearted joy of midsummer energy.
Final Thoughts
The Strawberry Moon is a time to savor the sweetness of life. Let love be your compass and presence be your power. You are allowed to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
How to Work With the Energy of the Strawberry Moon
The Strawberry Moon is rich with themes of love, pleasure, celebration, and fruitful manifestation. It’s a powerful time to align with what feels good, indulge in beauty, and harvest the rewards of what you've been cultivating since spring’s beginning.
Strawberry Moon Ritual Ideas
Abundance Ritual: Write down three things that are thriving in your life. Create a gratitude altar with strawberries, honey, flowers, or symbols of prosperity.
Self-Love Ceremony: Pamper yourself with a luxurious ritual bath, body oils, or time in nature. Say aloud what you love about yourself.
Harvest Tarot Spread:
What sweetness is ready to be received?
Where in my life is abundance blooming?
What deserves celebration and joy?
Crystal Companions: Use garnet, rose quartz, or sunstone for heart-expansion, passion, and radiant energy.
Journaling Prompt: What have I cultivated that is now ready to be enjoyed? What am I ready to savor without guilt or hesitation?
Names in Other Cultures
Affirmations for the Strawberry Moon
I welcome sweetness, pleasure, and joy into my life.
My heart is open to abundance in all forms.
I celebrate how far I’ve come and what I’ve grown.
