What is a corn moon?

Did you know that when a full moon appears in early September, it's called a Corn Moon ? Here's what you need to know about the Corn Moon .

In certain years, the September full moon is called the Corn Moon. Its ancient name is rooted in cultural tradition and often reflects seasonal phenomena in nature.

What is Corn Moon?

The Corn Moon is a bright yellow color, like a field of corn. The Corn Moon is a full moon that appears in early September, the time of year when summer crops like corn are in full growth.

In the Northern Hemisphere, the Corn Moon marks the beginning of the harvest season. During this time, the rapid transition from day to night allows farmers to take advantage of the full moon's bright light to extend their work hours and harvest their crops more efficiently.

Why is it called Corn Moon?

This special full moon is called so because in the Northern Hemisphere, corn is almost mature and will soon be ready to harvest. It also acts as a sign and warning that fall is approaching.

The crops are in full growth and will soon begin to wither, so they must be harvested early. Traditionally, in the Northern Hemisphere, this time of year is associated with harvest festivals to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest.

The term 'Corn Moon' was first used by Native American tribes. The lunar cycle is an ancient method of keeping track of the time of year. Each of the 13 full moons in a lunar year is named to reflect the associated seasonal events in nature.

The Corn Moon is the most common name for the September moon; however, it is also known as the Full Corn Moon or even the supermoon.

The lunar calendar does not always match the regular calendar, so sometimes the names of full moons change. If the September full moon occurs at the beginning of the solar month, it is called a Corn Moon.

But if the September full moon occurs at the end of the month, near the autumnal equinox, it is called the Advent Moon.

Sometimes the Advent Moon occurs in October, so there are two moon names for September. Depending on when the full moon falls, its name will be determined. In Chinese culture, this full moon can sometimes coincide with the Mid-Autumn Festival. In China, it is called the Mooncake Moon.

Although the Corn Moon does not occur in early September every year, it does occur every two to three years.

Recognizing the appearance of the Corn Moon is a reminder to prepare for winter and begin harvesting.

Lesley Montoya

Update 15 September 2025