This year has given us some amazing astronomical sights already – from the early aurora displays to the spectacular 'planet parade'.
And now we're looking forward to the next full moon, which, clear skies permitting, will light up our surroundings with its brilliant lunar glow.
February's full moon, also known as the Snow Moon, rises between Imbolc on 2 February and the spring equinox on 20 March and is said to symbolise change, hope and personal growth.
When is the Snow Moon?
The next Snow Moon will appear on 12 February 2025. It will rise at 17:03 GMT (London) and set at 07:53 GMT on 13 February.
Why is it called the Snow Moon?
The lunar calendar includes 12, or sometimes 13, full moons per year, and each one has a different name. The first full moon of 2025 took place on 13 January. It was called the Wolf Moon, supposedly because wolves howled more during this part of winter when food was scarce.
February's full moon is named the Snow Moon. It is reported that the moons were given names by indigenous people living in North America, and at this time of year there was usually snow on the ground in the Northern Hemisphere.
How to observe the snow moon
Stargazing is always best done away from sources of light pollution. Take yourself to a naturally dark area then give your eyes 20 minutes or so to adjust.
When you're in an open space away from built up areas, such as in the countryside or at the coast, you have better opportunities to see the moon without obstructions.
February 2025's Snow Moon will rise next to the constellation of Leo.
Do people celebrate a Snow Moon?
There are lots of ways to celebrate the Snow Moon around the UK. If you want to mark the occasion in a memorable way, there are exciting snow moon events taking place across the country on 12 February:
- Discover Scottish Gardens is hosting a magical moonlit walk through the snowdrops at Cambo Gardens in Fife, Scotland.
- Move in Nature is holding a Dance in the Dark in Mid Glamorgan, Wales. It's a musical walk held under the light of the moon.
- Glove Dippers are hosting an introduction to cold water swimming before a moonlight swim in Holt, Wiltshire.
- There's a snow moon sound bath taking place in Old Park Ridings, London, where you can be immersed in soothing sounds on this magical evening.
Search in your local listing, magazines and websites, or on social media platforms, for events that may be taking place near you.
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Main image: full moon. Credit: Getty Images