September’s Full “Harvest” Moon

“The definition of a Harvest Moon is: the full moon closest to the fall equinox. The Harvest Moon was thus named because it rises within a half-hour of when the sun sets. In early days, when farmers had no tractors, it was essential that they work by the light of the moon to bring in the harvest. This moon is the fullest moon of the year. When you gaze at it, it looks very large and gives a lot of light throughout the entire night. No other lunar spectacle is as awesome as the Harvest Moon.”

Harvest Moon Lore

 Sept 30, 2023 Full Harvest Moon at 6:35 pm PST/ 7:35 pm MST / 9:35 pm EST

The Old Farmer’s Almanac calls this moon the Full Corn Moon however in the Pagan Traditions it is called the Harvest Moon. Other names for this moon are Chrysanthemum Moon (China), Nut Moon (Cherokee), Mulberry Moon (Choctaw), Singing Moon (Celtic),  and Barley Moon (medieval english).

Many of the Native American tribes’ staple foods, such as corn, pumpkins, squash, beans, and rice, were ready for harvesting during this month. The strong light of the Harvest Moon allowed European farmers to work late into the night to harvest their crops which is where the name came from. This moon does not always occur in September and traditionally, the name goes to the full moon closest to the autumn equinox, the Harvest Moon sometimes happens in September and sometimes in October.

As Mother Earth  begins her journey into the  dark part of the year, the sun pulls away and we get that welcome autumn chill. September is a time of hearth and home as well as a time to acknowledge the things that we have accomplished since spring.

“Drink a toast to Dionysus, the God of wine and ecstasy – The son of the Moon! Gather with friends to celebrate the vine
with a bottle of good wine and good cheer. Catch the Moon’s reflection in your cup and raise it up in salutation. Now drink
in Her essence and feel the presence of the God and Goddess.”

September, The Harvest Moon, Moon Lore

To get in the autumn mood and celebrate this months element of earth try wearing browns, greens and other earthy colors. 

Sacred Stones: Citrine, Peridot, Bloodstone

Sacred Herbs: Grains, Valerian, Witch Hazel

Deities: Hearth Goddesses, Demeter, Brighid, Vesta, Freya

Full moon blessings!

Cat

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