Mark your calendars, Philly stargazers—the Beaver full moon, the biggest supermoon of 2025 is finally here!
🌕 When can Philly see the Beaver Supermoon?
The Beaver Moon will rise over Philadelphia’s skyline on November 4 and 5, with its peak glow on November 5, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac.
However, this isn’t just any full moon! It’s the biggest of the year, when the moon swings closet to Earth (about 221,817 miles away). That means a jaw-dropping views for anyone near the Art Museum steps, the Schuylkill Banks, or your favorite rooftop bar.
And if that’s to magical enough, the Southern Taurus meteor shower will hit its peak the same night.
So, keep your eyes peeled for a few shooting stars streaking through the Philly sky.
🌝 What makes a Supermoon so special?
A “supermoon” happens when the moon’s orbit brings it extra close to Earth, making it appear up to 14% bigger and 30% brighter than your average full moon.
There’s no scientific cutoff for what counts as a supermoon but more about the wow factor. When the moon reaches it closet point (perigee), it glows brighter and fuller, while its farthest point (apogee) creates a smaller, dimmer “micro moon”.
🦫 Why is it called the Beaver Moon?
November’s full moon gets its name from the season when beavers retreat to their lodges after stocking up for winter.
During the fur trade era, this was also prime time to set traps for their thick, cold-weather pelts, a tradition reflected in the moon’s name.
Different indigenous tribes have their own poetic names for this lunar event— like the “Deer Rutting Moon” and the “Frost Exploding Tree Moon“– all celebrating the soft shift into winter’s deep chill.
🌠 What’s next for Philly skywatchers?
If you miss this one, don’t worry— December’s “Cold Moon” will rise on December 4, 2025, marking the final supermoon of the year.
Until then, grab a cozy blanket, maybe a hot cider, and head outside for a front-row seat to one of nature’s most dazzling light shows…no telescope needed.
The Beaver supermoon will is set to rise in Philly November 4th & 5th, with peak illumination on November 5th when the moon rises at 4:42pm ET.