The “Pink Moon” Will Rise Over Ukraine: When to Watch the Full Moon and Why It’s Important for Easter
1 April 04:02
In early April, Ukrainians and astronomy enthusiasts around the world will be able to observe the first full moon of spring— the so-called Pink Moon. In 2026, it falls on April 1. This is reported by Live Science, according to "Komersant Ukrainian"
This phenomenon is interesting not only from an astronomical perspective. It is this year’s April full moon that determines the dates of Passover, Catholic Easter, and Orthodox Easter.
What is the Pink Moon
The Pink Moon is the traditional name for the full moon that appears in the spring, usually in April. Despite its name, the moon does not turn pink.
The name comes from the pink spring flowers of phlox, which bloom in North America during this very period. In other words, it is not about the color of the celestial body, but rather a seasonal folk name.
When is the full moon in April 2026?
In 2026, the full moon falls on Wednesday, April 1.
At the same time, the Moon will appear nearly full on the following days:
- March 31
- April 1
- April 2
But it is on April 1 that the moment of maximum fullness will occur.
Why this full moon is special
The April full moon of 2026 is interesting because on this very evening, the Moon will be visible next to the bright star Spica in the constellation Virgo.
This will create a beautiful combination in the sky, which will be an added bonus for observers.
The following evening, April 2, the Moon will also remain very close to Spica, although it will already begin to wane.
Read us on Telegram: important topics – without censorship
How to best observe the Pink Moon
The best time to observe the full moon is on April 1, when the Moon will appear above the eastern horizon after sunset.
To see it as clearly as possible, you should:
- choose a spot with an unobstructed view to the east;
- check the Moonrise time in your city;
- watch the sky immediately after sunset;
- avoid bright city lights if possible.
Why the Pink Moon is associated with Easter
The April full moon holds significant importance in the religious calendar.
In the Jewish tradition
This full moon marks the beginning of Passover. In 2026, the holiday begins at sunset on April 1.
For Western Christianity
In the Catholic and Protestant traditions, Easter is defined as the first Sunday after the first full moon following the spring equinox.
Since the spring equinox this year was on March 20 and the next full moon is on April 1, Easter in the Western tradition falls on April 5.
For the Orthodox tradition
In the Eastern Orthodox tradition, Easter this year will be a week later—April 12.
What other names does the April full moon have?
Different peoples have given the April full moon other names as well. Among them:
- The Moon of Thawing Ice
- The month when rivers become navigable again
- The month when plants and bushes bud
- The month when red grass appears
- The Month of Broken Snowshoes
All these names are associated with the arrival of spring and the renewal of nature.
Read us on Telegram: important topics – without censorship
