New Orleans, Louisiana – The first weekend of the New Year brings a rare and visually striking night-sky event across Louisiana as the Wolf Moon rises as a supermoon, marking the final chance to see a full moon this large and bright until the end of 2026. With mild January evenings and wide-open horizons along the Gulf Coast, Louisiana could offer some of the most comfortable viewing conditions in the central U.S.
According to astronomical timing, the Wolf Moon reaches peak illumination early Saturday morning around 4 a.m. CST, but the most dramatic viewing opportunity comes later that day. Across southeast Louisiana, including New Orleans, sunset occurs shortly after 5:15 p.m., with moonrise following during early twilight. That timing places the moonrise in the ideal blue-hour window, when the moon appears oversized and richly colored 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. That alignment allows it to appear up to 14 percent larger and roughly 30 percent brighter than a typical full moon. Viewers in Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Houma, Slidell, and along the Atchafalaya Basin should see the moon rise Saturday evening and climb high into the night sky, remaining visible for hours.
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 Louisiana an extended viewing window compared to later months.
For the best view, skywatchers are encouraged to face east at moonrise from an open bayou, levee, field, or coastal overlook 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 will not return until late 2026, making this a standout way to begin the New Year across Louisiana.
