When is the best time to view December's full Cold Moon in the Lower Hudson Valley?

As December begins, skywatchers can look forward to the appearance of the full Cold Moon on December 4, 2025. This event marks the final supermoon of the year, during which the moon will be slightly closer to Earth and appear brighter than usual. A supermoon occurs when the full moon aligns with the moon's orbit at about 90% of its closest approach to Earth, known as perigee.

Experts note that while the moon may seem brighter and nearer, the difference is subtle and often difficult to perceive with the naked eye.

Significance of the Cold Moon

This December full moon is the last before the winter solstice, the years shortest day when northern hemisphere temperatures are typically frigid. Traditionally, it is called the "Moon before Yule," marking the full moon preceding the ancient Pagan celebration of Yule, a winter festival observed either on the solstice or the first full moon afterward. Other historical names include Long Night Moon, Drift Clearing Moon, and Little Spirit Moon.

Photographs of previous Cold Moons often feature seasonal decorations, such as this image from Skopje, North Macedonia taken on Dec. 15, 2024.

Viewing Times in the Lower Hudson Valley

In the Lower Hudson Valley, moonrise is expected around 3:52 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 4. The full moon will be fully illuminated at 6:14 p.m. and set at approximately 6:53 a.m. Friday morning. For the most striking view, observers are advised to watch shortly after moonrise, when the moon appears larger near the horizon due to the Moon illusion.

Weather Conditions for Observation

The National Weather Service predicts mostly clear skies for Thursday night in the Lower Hudson Valley, with freezing low temperatures near 15F in Westchester and Rockland counties, and around 11F in Putnam County.

Moon Phases for December

Detailed dates for this months moon phases are available through the Old Farmer's Almanac.

Reported by Emily Barnes for USA TODAY Networks New York Connect Team, with editorial contributions from Ashley C. Fontones of The Journal News and lohud.com.

Analysis: The 2025 Cold Moon and Its Astronomical Significance

The upcoming full Cold Moon on December 4, 2025, marks the final supermoon of the year, providing skywatchers with a unique celestial event. While it is slightly closer to Earth, the difference in its appearance is subtle, making it difficult for the naked eye to perceive. Nonetheless, the Cold Moon holds importance both astronomically and culturally, signaling the last full moon before the winter solstice.

The supermoon phenomenon occurs when the full moon coincides with the moon's orbit at around 90% of its closest approach to Earth. This results in a slightly brighter and larger moon, though the visible impact is minimal. This year's Cold Moon, falling just before the solstice, is notable for its role in marking the "Moon before Yule," which holds significance in ancient Pagan traditions. The Cold Moon is also referred to as the Long Night Moon or Drift Clearing Moon, names that reflect its position in the seasonal calendar.

In the Lower Hudson Valley, the Cold Moon will rise at 3:52 p.m. and reach its fullest illumination at 6:14 p.m., providing a short but striking viewing window. Observers are advised to catch the moon shortly after moonrise, when it appears larger near the horizon due to the Moon illusion. With clear skies expected in the region, it promises to be an ideal night for lunar observation, despite the frigid temperatures.

As this year’s final supermoon, the Cold Moon offers both a scientific and cultural opportunity to reflect on the cycles of nature, from the astronomy behind supermoons to the ancient rituals marking the changing seasons.

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• When can you see December's full Cold Moon in the Lower Hudson Valley?