Tomorrow evening the final supermoon of the year is set to dazzle Philadelphia skies, glowing brighter and appearing larger than almost any other we’ve seen in 2025. Although this is the third consecutive supermoon of the of the year, it is the second-closet and highest full moon. Hovering just 357,000 km from Earth, December’s cold moon will give off a brilliant, frosty glow worthy of its name.
What makes this full moon so special?
The December full moon is known as the Cold Moon, a nod to the deepening chill of early winer.
But this year, it doubles as a supermoon, meaning it reaches fullness just hours after hitting perigee, the point in its orbit where it swings closet to Earth.
A supermoon can appear up to 8% larger and shine up to 16% brighter than a typical full moon. You may not be able to measure it with your eyes, but you’ll definitely feel it in its glow.
When to watch December’s cold supermoon in Philly
The cold supermoon will officially rise Thursday, December 4th, 2025 shortly after sunset and reach peak illumination at 6:14 PM ET.
However, it will appear full both Wednesday night and Friday night‚—with Friday expected to be particularly impressive.
Your best chance to view the moon in all its super glory is around moonrise as it is the prime time for the lunar illusion.
Best place around Philly to catch the supermoon
Here are our top picks to catch the final supermoon of the year:
- Race Street Pier
- Penn Treaty Park
- Kelly Drive
- Belmont Plateau
- Rocky Steps
- Your favorite high-rise rooftop
Indeed, you’ll want to bundle up (and bring a thermos) as you catch the final supermoon of 2025, December’s Cold Moon—a celestial reminder that winter is almost here.
The first full moon of 2026 is expected to rise on January 3rd.