Summer in Toronto is already full of golden-hour views and some pretty iconic sunsets, but as June winds down, there’s another good reason for Torontonians to look up after sunset. The Strawberry Moon is set to rise over the city soon, and this one comes with a small celestial twist: it’s also the last micromoon of 2026!
Unlike some other celestial wonders, you won’t have to stay up too late to spot it. In Toronto, the Strawberry Moon will reach peak illumination at around 7:56 p.m. on June 29, but the best time to see it will be around 9:22 p.m., when it rises above the southeastern horizon.
And as pretty as the name is, the Strawberry Moon will likely look more golden than berry-coloured. According to Time and Date, the nickname is tied to the time of year when strawberries and other berries ripen and are harvested. Other names for this full moon include the Green Corn Moon and even the Hot Moon!
The Strawberry Moon is also the first full moon after the summer solstice, which took place on June 21 and marked the official start of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. But this one is a little different due to its distance from Earth. A micromoon happens when a full moon occurs near apogee (aka, the farthest point in the moon’s orbit around Earth). The June 29 full moon will be near that farthest point, about 405,254 kilometres away, making it a Micro Full Moon.
For the best views in and near Toronto, head somewhere with an open view toward the southeast (and as little light pollution as possible). Waterfront spots like the Toronto Islands, Cherry Beach, Woodbine Beach, and Tommy Thompson Park are good spots!
If you’re looking to sky-gaze elsewhere in Ontario, check out this astronomy lover’s guide to all the best stargazing spots in the province.