Last Supermoon of the year: Full Cold Moon on December 4

Photo: Photo by Jonathan Wheeler

PARK CITY, Utah — December’s full Moon is approaching, and it has a fitting name for the season: the Full Cold Moon, according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac. This year, the Full Cold Moon will reach peak illumination on Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 6:14 a.m. Eastern Time, which is about 4:14 a.m. in Utah. However, it will appear full to skywatchers the night before and the night after, as noted by the Almanac.

The name “Cold Moon” originates from the Mohawk people and signifies the onset of winter’s chill. Additionally, The Old Farmer’s Almanac mentions other traditional names for this full Moon, such as the Long Night Moon, which reflects the long, dark nights of December as we approach the winter solstice.

This year, there’s an added twist: The Old Farmer’s Almanac classifies the December Full Cold Moon as a supermoon. This is part of a trilogy of supermoon full Moons occurring in October, November, and December, all of which come within 90% of the Moon’s closest approach to Earth. As a result, the Moon will appear slightly larger and brighter than usual to attentive observers.

For residents in the Park City area, the Almanac recommends watching the full Moon when it is low on the horizon, where buildings, trees, and mountains can provide a dramatic sense of scale. Be sure to bundle up, step away from bright streetlights if possible, and allow your eyes a few minutes to adjust.

Whether you catch it late on Wednesday night or early Thursday morning, December’s Full Cold Moon serves as the last full Moon before winter officially begins—a bright marker of the season settling in and a great reason to take a moment to look up on a long December night.

Did you catch a photo of December’s Full Cold Moon? Share with us at info@townlift.com!