February’s full moon, popularly known as the Snow Moon, is expected to shine at its brightest on February 1, 2026, adding wintery brightness to stargazers around the world.
The Snow Moon gets its name from the heavy snowfall that usually falls in the Northern Hemisphere during the month of February. It is also traditionally called, among various Native American tribes in North America, the Hungry Moon and the Bear Moon. In some areas, this moon is also called a Storm Moon, indicating how the winter after the full moon is often accompanied by natural disasters.
The February 2026 full moon also coincides with the birthday of Guru Ravidas Jayanti, who is known as the great Indian mystic Guru Ravidas in the South Asia region. This night is also recognized in India as the date for Magha Purnima, when people worship, fast and donate to charity.
When and how can you see Snow Moon 2026?
The Snow Moon will reportedly be at its brightest on February 1, 2026 around 5:09 PM EST. In Britain the full moon is expected to appear at 10:09pm GMT, while in Asia and Australia it will be visible in the morning hours of February 2.
This February 2026 Snow Moon will be best visible in the eastern sky shortly after sunset on February 1. It will rise near the constellation Cancer and will appear very large due to the moon illusion. The best vantage point for viewing the Snow Moon is an open, wide-sky location with a clear eastern view.
Additionally, planets like Jupiter shine high in the eastern sky, while Saturn appears in the west shortly after sunset. The February full moon of 2026 is also a great opportunity to explore lunar features with binoculars or a telescope.
