Pink Moon 2026: When to See April's Full Moon

The annual 'pink moon' will peak in the night sky on April 1, 2026.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 8:30pm

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The pink full moon, one of the most anticipated full moons of the year, is set to peak in the night sky on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 10:12 p.m. EDT. While the moon won't actually appear pink, the name refers to the early springtime bloom of a pink wildflower known as 'creeping phlox' or 'moss pink' that often blankets the ground around this time.

Why it matters

The pink moon is a highly anticipated celestial event that marks the arrival of spring. Observing the full moon is a popular pastime for stargazers and nature enthusiasts, and the pink moon's connection to the blooming of springtime flowers makes it a special occasion.

The details

The pink full moon will reach its peak illumination at 10:12 p.m. EDT on April 1, 2026. While the moon won't actually appear pink, the name refers to the early springtime bloom of a pink wildflower known as 'creeping phlox' or 'moss pink' that often blankets the ground around this time. The next full moon, known as the 'flower moon,' will arrive on May 1, 2026.

  • The pink full moon will peak at 10:12 p.m. EDT on April 1, 2026.
  • The next full moon, the 'flower moon,' will arrive on May 1, 2026.

The players

Phlox subulata

Also known as 'creeping phlox' or 'moss pink,' this pink wildflower often blooms around the time of the April full moon, giving it the 'pink moon' nickname.

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The takeaway

The pink moon is a highly anticipated annual event that marks the arrival of spring and the blooming of pink wildflowers. While the moon itself won't appear pink, observing this full moon is a popular pastime for stargazers and nature enthusiasts.