The Wolf Moon is the traditional Western name for the full Moon of January. The next Wolf Moon is on January 22, 2027 (UTC). In other traditions it is the Spirit Moon (Algonquin), the Quiet Moon (Celtic) and Paush Purnima (Hindu calendar).
Full Moon instants are calculated with astronomy-engine and shown in UTC, then in your own time zone. The names are folk and cultural traditions, recorded in very different sources; they are not astronomical designations.
Full Moon names
The Wolf Moon
Next full:
Wolf Moon dates
MODELED- January 3, 2026PastMonth calendar →
- January 22, 2027Month calendar →
- January 12, 2028
One Moon, four names
TRADITION- Western
- Wolf Moon
- Algonquin
- Spirit Moon
- Celtic
- Quiet Moon
- Hindu
- Paush Purnima
Named for the howling of hungry wolves in midwinter. A time of deep cold, long nights, and inward reflection. Many traditions see January's full moon as a call to community and survival through the darkest season.
Questions
When is the Wolf Moon?
The Wolf Moon falls on January 3, 2026, January 22, 2027, January 12, 2028 (UTC dates). Each is the exact instant the Moon is opposite the Sun; in time zones west of UTC the date can be a day earlier.
Why is it called the Wolf Moon?
Named for the howling of hungry wolves in midwinter. A time of deep cold, long nights, and inward reflection. Many traditions see January's full moon as a call to community and survival through the darkest season.