Have you ever wondered how many of the terms we use today have a centuries-old history? Moon phases are no exception since people have been marking lunar days to track time and take care of their agricultural routines for eons. This time, we will talk about the July plenilune, the Buck full moon, if we stick to historical terms. So when will we see it in 2025, how did it get its name, and what is special about it?
How did the Buck Moon get its name?
Most ethnic names have been preserved, either thanks to European settlers or Native American tribes. Buck Moon is a term commonly associated with the Algonquin, to whom we still owe many of the lunar phase names. In the wild nature, July is the time when young deer (bucks) start growing new antlers. The new antlers grow quickly, but in July, they are still visibly ‘new.’ So much for name origins!
What does the Buck Moon symbolize?
Generally, any plenilune is a symbol of something new emerging after something old has been left behind. Buck antlers are certainly no exception here, considering that the older deer have to cast their old antlers away to grow a new pair! Similarly, Buck Moon is a time for growth and renewal – not necessarily physically, but also emotionally and spiritually.
Buck moon 2025 dates
In 2025, Buck Moon will reach its fullest phase on or around July 10th. Depending on your time zone, it could appear to peak late on July 9 or in the early hours of July 10. If you don’t want to miss this sight, check a reliable lunar calendar or an astronomical app that adjusts for your local time zone. There are plenty of free stargazing apps for every taste and operating system!
But why should you care? What’s so special about Buck Moon, anyway?
What is special about a buck moon?
Last year, we had a chance to witness quite a few supermoons – that is, periods when plenilunes coincided with the Moon’s perigee (a point of closest approach to our planet). Still, trusted space news resources assure us that in 2025, the July plenilune will not coincide with a perigee, an eclipse, or any other rare astronomical phenomenon. The Buck Moon color, too, should be quite ordinary.
So, why bother? Well, there is one reason to take a closer look at Buck Moon in 2025. It just happens to be around yet another anniversary of the Apollo Moon landing – ten days ahead, but still.
Besides, full moons have always been assigned special meaning in spiritual practices, astrology (if you believe in such things), and culture in general. So how about we learn a few things about that, just for the sake of cultural awareness?
Buck moon spiritual meaning
- On a spiritual plane, every full moon is about renewal. In the case of July Buck Moon, you can use this time to:
- Reflect on your progress so far and maybe even revisit some of your New Year’s resolutions – how far have you gotten by mid-year? If not too far, don’t blame yourself, but pause and think about adjustments to straighten your course. What do you really need to focus the energy on?
- Get inspired by bucks’ resilience as they grow new antlers and consider the ways you could challenge yourself for further growth.
- Celebrate and be thankful for the progress you have now.
- Have a picnic outside to sample all the tasty summer treats, and be thankful for those, too!
The most philosophical of us can also think about traditional perceptions of masculinity and femininity. Bucks, after all, are a classic masculine symbol, but summer is the peak of fertility – a generally feminine characteristic. So, early July could be a perfect time to find the balance between those seemingly opposing energies.
Buck moon astrology meaning in 2025
In 2025, Buck Moon will be in the sign of Capricorn. This is an Earth sign associated with discipline, responsibility, long-term goals, and structure. In the meantime, the Sun will be in the sign of Cancer, which is a water sign known for its emotional security, home life, and family ties.
So, this year, Buck Moon could make some of us choose between home (Cancer) and external responsibilities (Capricorn). The latter sign can also heighten ambition, but keep in mind that any goals you set during this period will only be achieved through discipline and hard work. But that’s no reason not to set any!
Also, any plenilune is about gaining the emotional clarity you need. Buck Moon 2025 is no exception, so use this time to find the balance you need.
Author: Emma Thorpe
