Richmond, Virginia – The first weekend of the New Year brings a rare and visually striking night-sky event across Virginia as the Wolf Moon rises as a supermoon, offering the last chance to see a full moon this large and bright until the end of 2026. If skies remain clear, residents across the Commonwealth could see one of the most dramatic moonrises of the year.
According to astronomical timing, the Wolf Moon reaches peak illumination early Saturday morning around 5:03 a.m. EST, but the most eye-catching moment comes later that day. In central Virginia, including Richmond, sunset occurs just before 4:55 p.m., with moonrise following shortly after during early twilight. That timing places the moonrise in the blue-hour window, when the moon appears larger and more colorful 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 an average full moon. Observers in Northern Virginia, including Arlington and Alexandria, along with Hampton Roads, Roanoke, and the Shenandoah Valley, should see the moon rise Saturday evening and remain visible for much of the night.
The Wolf Moon is named for 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 Virginia an extended viewing window compared to later months.
For the best view, skywatchers should face east at moonrise from an open field, park, ridgeline, or waterfront with a clear horizon. While the moon will appear full throughout the night, Saturday evening offers the most dramatic contrast against fading daylight. Clear skies will be essential. After this weekend, another supermoon will not return until late 2026, making this a standout way to begin the New Year.
