Look Up! The "Pink Moon" is Coming This April Fools' Day

If you’re looking for a reason to step outside and enjoy the night air, mark your calendar for Wednesday, April 1, 2026. And no, this isn't an April Fools' joke—we’re getting a front-row seat to the beautiful Full Pink Moon!

Why is it called "Pink"?

Before you grab your rose-colored glasses, here’s a quick heads-up: the moon doesn't actually turn neon pink. It’s named after the creeping phlox, those tiny pink wildflowers that start popping up across North America this time of year. It’s basically nature’s way of saying, "Spring is officially here!"

The Best Time to Catch the View

If you want that "wow" moment, timing is everything. A full moon always looks its biggest and most dramatic right when it’s peeking over the eastern horizon during dusk.

• For the East Coast: It hits official "fullness" at 10:13 p.m. EDT, but you’ll want to start watching around 7:15 p.m.
• For the West Coast: You’re in for a treat! There is a rare "sync" happening at 7:13 p.m. PDT where the moon reaches peak fullness, the sun sets, and the moon rises all at the exact same time.

A Little Extra Magic

This year’s Pink Moon is also the Paschal Moon, which is the moon used to set the date for Easter Sunday (which will be April 5th this year).

Plus, if you look up on April 2nd, you’ll see the moon hanging out right next to a bright star called Spica. If you can find the Big Dipper, just "arc to Arcturus and speed on to Spica" to find it!

So, find an open field or a clear view of the east, and enjoy the fourth of our thirteen full moons this year. Happy gazing!