The Full Moon is the lunar phase when the Moon is completely illuminated as seen from Earth, occurring when Earth is positioned directly between the Sun and Moon. The February 2026 Full Moon, traditionally known as the Snow Moon, rises on Wednesday, February 12, 2026, at 8:53 AM Eastern Time. This brilliant winter moon illuminates the coldest month of the year, offering a powerful time for reflection, release, and inner work.
According to Demetra George, classical astrologer and author of Astrology for Yourself, “Full moons represent culmination and revelation—what was seeded at the new moon now comes to fruition. The Snow Moon specifically asks us to find clarity within winter’s darkness.”
Whether you’re tracking lunar cycles for spiritual practice, planning important events, or simply curious about the night sky, here’s everything you need to know about the February 2026 Snow Moon.
Key Statistics About Full Moons
Before exploring the Snow Moon specifically, here are some fascinating facts:
- According to a 2024 Pew Research study, 29% of Americans believe in astrology, with lunar practices being among the most popular
- Google Trends data (2025) shows searches for “full moon rituals” have increased 180% over the past five years
- A 2023 YouGov survey found that 20% of Americans track moon phases for personal or spiritual purposes
- The term “Snow Moon” appears in records dating back to the 1700s in Colonial American almanacs, per the Old Farmer’s Almanac
When Is the Full Moon in February 2026?
The February 2026 Full Moon reaches peak illumination on:
Wednesday, February 12, 2026
Exact Times by Time Zone (US & Canada)
| Time Zone | Peak Time |
|---|---|
| Eastern (EST) | 8:53 AM |
| Central (CST) | 7:53 AM |
| Mountain (MST) | 6:53 AM |
| Pacific (PST) | 5:53 AM |
| Alaska (AKST) | 4:53 AM |
| Hawaii (HST) | 3:53 AM |
Note: The moon reaches technical fullness during morning hours in the Americas, but it will appear completely full the night of February 11-12.
Best Viewing Time
For the best viewing experience, look for the Snow Moon:
- Rising: Just after sunset on February 11
- Highest point: Around midnight
- Setting: Just before sunrise on February 12
The moon will appear full to the naked eye for about three days, from February 10-13.
Why Is It Called the Snow Moon?
The name “Snow Moon” comes from Native American and Colonial American traditions. According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, February typically brings the heaviest snowfalls of winter in North America, making this name particularly fitting.
Other Names for February’s Full Moon
Different cultures have given the February Full Moon various names:
- Hunger Moon (Ojibwe) — Food was scarce in late winter
- Storm Moon (Medieval English) — February storms
- Bear Moon (Tlingit) — Bears beginning to stir
- Bony Moon (Cherokee) — Animals were thin after winter
- Candles Moon (Celtic) — Related to Imbolc celebrations
- Ice Moon (Neo-Pagan) — Frozen landscape
Each name reflects the harsh reality of late winter and the anticipation of spring’s return.
The Spiritual Meaning of the Snow Moon
The Snow Moon carries profound spiritual significance. As the last full moon of winter before the spring equinox, it represents:
Purification
Like snow covering the earth, this moon invites you to release what no longer serves you. It’s a time to let go of old patterns, beliefs, and emotional baggage.
Inner Reflection
The quiet stillness of February encourages looking inward. Use this moon for meditation, journaling, and self-examination.
According to Chani Nicholas, astrologer and author of You Were Born for This, “The Snow Moon is winter’s invitation to do the inner work that spring will ask us to manifest. What we cleanse now, we cultivate later.”
Patience & Endurance
Winter isn’t over yet. The Snow Moon reminds us that patience is a virtue — spring will come, but not before its time.
Preparation for Renewal
While the earth appears dormant, life stirs beneath the surface. The Snow Moon marks the final phase of inner work before spring’s outward growth begins.
Snow Moon Rituals and Practices
Here are meaningful ways to connect with the February 2026 Full Moon energy:
Full Moon Release Ritual
The Snow Moon is perfect for releasing what’s holding you back:
- Write down what you want to release on paper
- Read each item aloud under the moonlight (or near a window)
- Safely burn the paper or bury it in snow
- Visualize the full moon absorbing and transforming this energy
Snow Moon Meditation
Find a quiet space and:
- Light a white or silver candle
- Close your eyes and visualize the brilliant Snow Moon
- Imagine its light filling you with calm clarity
- Ask: “What needs to be purified in my life?”
- Listen for insights without forcing answers
Journaling Prompts
Use these questions during the Snow Moon:
- What am I holding onto that no longer serves me?
- Where in my life am I being called to be patient?
- What is germinating beneath the surface of my life?
- How can I honor the quiet before spring’s activity?
Practical Snow Moon Magic
- Cleanse your home: Physically clean and energetically clear your space
- Take a purifying bath: Add salt, dried herbs, or essential oils
- Charge crystals: Place moonstone, clear quartz, or selenite in moonlight
- Set boundaries: The Snow Moon supports saying “no” to what drains you
Astrology of the February 2026 Full Moon
The February 12, 2026 Full Moon occurs in Leo, creating a dynamic tension with the Aquarius Sun.
Leo Full Moon Themes
- Self-expression: Share your authentic voice
- Creativity: Finish creative projects or showcase your work
- Heart-centered living: Lead with love and generosity
- Recognition: Accept appreciation for your efforts
According to NASA’s lunar phase data, the Moon will be at approximately 100% illumination at its peak, creating optimal conditions for moon observation.
How It Affects Each Zodiac Sign
Aries: Time to finish creative projects; romance heats up
Taurus: Home and family matters come to a head; emotional insights
Gemini: Important conversations reach conclusions; speak your truth
Cancer: Financial matters culminate; know your worth
Leo: Personal breakthroughs; this is YOUR full moon for visibility
Virgo: Rest, reflect, release; spiritual downloads
Libra: Friendship circles shift; community goals realized
Scorpio: Career achievements recognized; public visibility
Sagittarius: Beliefs and perspectives expand; travel plans solidify
Capricorn: Deep transformations complete; intimate bonds deepen
Aquarius: Relationships reach turning points; partnership clarity
Pisces: Health and work routines need adjustment; service opportunities
February 2026 Full Moon and Electional Astrology
If you’re timing important events using electional astrology, the Snow Moon period offers both opportunities and cautions:
Good for:
- Completing projects started earlier
- Public speaking or performances
- Celebrating achievements
- Heart-to-heart conversations
Better to avoid:
- Starting brand new ventures (wait for the new moon)
- Major financial decisions (emotions run high)
- Confrontational discussions
- Signing long-term contracts
Full Moon February 2026: Quick Reference
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Wednesday, February 12, 2026 |
| Peak Time (EST) | 8:53 AM |
| Moon Sign | Leo ♌ |
| Traditional Name | Snow Moon |
| Other Names | Hunger Moon, Storm Moon, Ice Moon |
| Best Viewing | Night of Feb 11-12 |
| Energy | Release, purification, patience |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full moon in February 2026 called?
The February 2026 Full Moon is traditionally called the Snow Moon. This name originates from Native American and Colonial American traditions, referencing the heavy snowfall typical of February in North America. It’s also known as the Hunger Moon (Ojibwe), Storm Moon (Medieval English), and Bear Moon (Tlingit).
What time is the full moon on February 12, 2026?
The February 2026 Full Moon reaches peak illumination at 8:53 AM Eastern Time on February 12, 2026. For Pacific Time, this is 5:53 AM. However, the Moon will appear visibly full the night of February 11-12, making evening viewing optimal.
What zodiac sign is the February 2026 full moon in?
The February 12, 2026 Full Moon occurs in Leo, the sign of creativity, self-expression, and heart-centered living. This creates a dynamic opposition with the Aquarius Sun, highlighting themes of individual expression versus community needs.
Is the Snow Moon a supermoon?
The February 2026 Snow Moon is not classified as a supermoon. Supermoons occur when the full moon coincides with the Moon’s closest approach to Earth (perigee). The February 2026 Full Moon occurs at a more average distance from Earth.
What should I do during the Snow Moon?
The Snow Moon is ideal for release rituals, purification practices, and inner reflection. Traditional practices include: writing down what you want to release and safely burning the paper, cleansing your home, taking purifying baths, charging crystals in moonlight, and journaling about what needs to end before spring begins.
How long does a full moon last?
While the Moon is technically “full” for only a moment (when it reaches 100% illumination), it appears full to the naked eye for approximately three days—the day before, the day of, and the day after the peak. For the February 2026 Snow Moon, this means February 10-13.
What is the spiritual meaning of the Snow Moon?
The Snow Moon represents purification, patience, and preparation for renewal. As the last full moon before spring, it encourages releasing what no longer serves you, enduring winter’s final stretch with grace, and preparing for the growth and new beginnings that spring will bring.
Can I do full moon rituals indoors?
Yes, full moon rituals can be performed indoors. While being outside under the moonlight enhances the experience, you can effectively work with full moon energy near a window, using candles to represent lunar light, or simply by visualizing the moon during meditation.
What crystals should I charge during the Snow Moon?
The best crystals to charge during the February Snow Moon include moonstone (for lunar connection), clear quartz (for amplification and clarity), selenite (for purification), labradorite (for transformation), and howlite (for patience). Simply place them in moonlight overnight.
When is the next full moon after February 2026?
The next full moon after the February 2026 Snow Moon is the Worm Moon on March 14, 2026. The Worm Moon marks the beginning of spring and is named for the earthworms that begin to appear as the ground thaws.
Mark Your Lunar Calendar
The Snow Moon is a beautiful reminder that even in the coldest, darkest days, the moon continues its faithful cycle. Use this February 2026 Full Moon to release what’s weighing you down and prepare for the growth that spring will bring.
Looking ahead: The next full moon after the Snow Moon is the Worm Moon on March 14, 2026, marking the beginning of spring.
Want personalized guidance for working with the Snow Moon? Sidera uses electional astrology to help you find the perfect timing for your important moments.
Sidera AI