This month's full moon will also feature a lunar rarity: According to TimeandDate.com, the full moon on Dec. 15, 2024, will rise and set at its most extreme northerly points on the horizon — the result of a once-every-18.6 year cycle.

The popular nickname “cold moon ” originated from native American tribes, in this case the Mohawks, which gave a name to each full moon throughout the year to help track the seasons. The cold in the December nickname refers to the dropping temperatures that start taking hold as the winter season starts.

The December full moon will rise after the bright Geminid meteor shower this week. Here's the best time to watch ahead of winter solstice.

December 2024 is full of celestial significance. In addition to the full moon - called the Cold Moon - it has the winter solstice and a black moon.

The December full moon will come just before the longest night of the year. Here's what to know about it and when to see it.

The Cold Moon, December's full moon, will reach peak illumination on Sunday, Dec. 15. This follows November's full moon, the Beaver Moon. December's full moon marks the final full moon of 2024. The moon is currently in its waxing gibbous phase at 58% illumination, according to Space.com. The moon's phases in December are:

The spiritual meaning of December’s full Cold Moon is about creating new connections, letting go of old narratives, and reflecting on the past year of your life as you prepare to embark on the fresh one ahead.