May 2026 will feature two full moons, with the Flower Moon on May 1 and a rare Blue Moon on May 31. The Flower Moon will reach its peak illumination at 18:23 UTC.
The Flower Moon is associated with the blooming of flowers in May. It is classified as a micromoon, meaning it will appear slightly smaller than usual. This name has been attributed to Algonquin peoples.
In some traditions, the Flower Moon is also referred to as the Month of Flowers. Other names for May’s full moon include Budding Moon, Leaf Budding Moon, and Planting Moon.
Key dates in May 2026:
Flower Moon peaks on May 1 at 18:23 UTC and Blue Moon peaks on May 31 at 4:45 A.M. UTC.
The Full Moon names used by The Old Farmer’s Almanac come from various sources, including Native American and Colonial American traditions. Christina Ruddy noted that the term “Flower Moon” has been attributed to Algonquin peoples.
Some beliefs suggest that clothes washed for the first time during the Full Moon will not last long. Others consider this phase an ideal time to accept a marriage proposal.
Observers expect both moons to draw attention for their unique characteristics. The second full moon in a month is known as a Blue Moon, making it a rare occurrence.