Halmånen

Halmånen is a Swedish term that translates to "straw moon" and refers to the full moon that occurs in August. This name is associated with the agricultural cycle, as it typically coincides with the time when crops are ripening or being harvested in many parts of the Northern Hemisphere. The full moon in August has also been known by other names in various cultures, often reflecting seasonal changes or prominent natural phenomena. For example, in North America, it is frequently called the Sturgeon Moon, due to the abundance of sturgeon fish in the Great Lakes during this period. The "Old Farmer's Almanac" popularized many of these traditional full moon names, which are often derived from Native American or colonial traditions. While the astronomical event is simply the August full moon, the specific name "Halmånen" highlights a connection to the land and the culmination of the growing season in Swedish folklore and agricultural history. The visual appearance of the moon itself does not change significantly during this time compared to other full moons, but the name evokes a sense of completion and abundance associated with the late summer harvest.