The beaver moon will take place on Friday 15 November, the third of four supermoons in a row in 2024. It will be visible across many parts of the world, including the UK. If you enjoyed the hunter’s moon – the first full moon after the harvest – in October, you’ll love this too. 

The beaver moon is an incredible sight – bright and beautiful – but there’s more to this full moon event than the chance to get a great Instagram photo. Anyone even vaguely interested in astrology will know that new moons can bring new beginnings, and perhaps new challenges, but the beaver moon also has historical importance within folklore, as well as astrological influence.

Intrigued? An expert astrologer explains everything you need to know.

Many full moons are named based on folklore or a historical event. The name of the beaver moon originated in North America, where beavers traditionally start building their dams in November. Some people also believe that this November moon is inspired by the Native Americans, who lay beaver traps this time of year. The beaver moon has also been referred to as the frost moon by some Native American tribes.

The beaver moon is a particularly special full moon. “This is no ordinary full moon as it is the last supermoon of the year, glowing closer to Earth and appearing larger and more radiant in the sky,” explains Cathy Stronach, master astrologer for digital wellness company Sol. “Its influence in the sign of Taurus is equally potent, illuminating our deepest values, challenging us to focus on stability and encouraging us to reimagine what truly matters.”

The beaver moon usually takes place in November, and this year, it will be visible on Friday 15 November, rising at 15.31. One great thing about full moons is that they suit ‘naked eye’ stargazers – meaning no telescope or other equipment is necessary to see the best of them. 

Another positive aspect of the full moon is that it’s one reason to be thankful for dark winter mornings – the later the sunrise, the more of it we can see.

If you’re interested in astrology, it’s worth taking note of how the beaver moon might affect your zodiac sign.

This moon will bring changes to all of us. “The full moon is marked as an emotional crescendo, with the sun and moon positioned in opposing signs, amplifying energy and pulling our feelings to the surface,” says Stronach. “The earthly influence of Taurus will lend ‘grounding practical energy’ to what might otherwise feel like a rollercoaster. The steady vibe typically resists change, yet this full moon has another twist to it as it’s underpinned by an alignment with Uranus (the planet of change), bringing unpredicted shifts in our lives, inviting us to explore beyond our comfort zones and offering thrilling opportunities to expand in unexpected directions.”

However, as with all full moons, some star signs will feel the effects of this lunar event more than others. “The signs most affected by the beaver moon are Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn, Aquarius and Pisces,” explains Stronach. “These signs will experience heightened feelings and sensitivity but will also find stability and courage as they forge into the unknown.”

Images: Getty