New York City, New York – The first weekend of the New Year brings a rare and visually striking sky event across New York as the Wolf Moon rises as a supermoon, offering the final chance to see a full moon this large and bright until the end of 2026. If clouds cooperate, residents from Long Island to the North Country could witness one of the most dramatic moonrises in years.
According to astronomical timing, the Wolf Moon reaches peak illumination early Saturday morning around 5:03 a.m. EST, but the most compelling viewing comes later that day. In New York City, sunset occurs near 4:40 p.m., with moonrise following around 4:56 p.m., placing the moon’s appearance squarely in early twilight. That timing enhances the moon’s size and color as it climbs above the eastern horizon.
This full moon qualifies as a supermoon because it occurs near perigee, the moon’s closest approach to Earth. During this event, the moon can appear up to 14 percent larger and roughly 30 percent brighter than an average full moon. Observers across Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island will see the moon rise Saturday evening, while viewers in Albany, Syracuse, Rochester, and Buffalo can expect similar conditions as the moon tracks high across the night sky.
The Wolf Moon takes its name from winter folklore associated with the howling of wolves during the coldest part of the year. January’s full moon is also the highest-hanging full moon of the year in the Northern Hemisphere, giving New York one of the longest viewing windows nationwide.
For the best view, skywatchers should face east at moonrise from a waterfront, rooftop, open park, or elevated overlook with a clear horizon. While the moon will appear full throughout the night, Saturday evening offers the most dramatic contrast against the fading daylight. After this weekend, the next supermoon won’t return until late 2026, making this a standout way to kick off the New Year.
