Miami, Florida – The first weekend of the New Year brings a rare and visually striking night-sky event across Florida as the Wolf Moon rises as a supermoon, offering the last opportunity to see a full moon this large and bright until the end of 2026. With generally mild January evenings and wide-open horizons, Florida may provide some of the best viewing conditions in the eastern half of the country.
According to astronomical timing, the Wolf Moon reaches peak illumination early Saturday morning around 5:03 a.m. EST, but the most dramatic viewing arrives later that day. In South Florida, including Miami, sunset occurs shortly after 5:40 p.m., with moonrise following during early twilight. That timing places the moonrise squarely in the blue-hour window, when the moon appears larger, warmer in color, and more eye-catching as it lifts above the eastern horizon.
This full moon qualifies as a supermoon because it occurs near perigee, the moon’s closest point to Earth. During this event, the moon can appear up to 14 percent larger and roughly 30 percent brighter than an average full moon. Viewers in Orlando, Tampa, Jacksonville, Tallahassee, and along both the Atlantic and Gulf coasts should see the moon rise Saturday evening and remain visible for much of the night.
The Wolf Moon takes its name from winter folklore tied to the howling of wolves during the coldest weeks of the year. January’s full moon also rides higher across the sky than any other full moon of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, giving Florida an extended viewing window compared to later months.
For the best view, skywatchers are encouraged to face east at moonrise from an open beach, waterfront, park, or open landscape with a clear horizon. While the moon will appear full throughout the night, Saturday evening offers the most dramatic contrast and photo-worthy moments. Clear skies will be key. After this weekend, another supermoon won’t return until late 2026, making this a standout way to begin the New Year across Florida.
