July will wrap with a full moon, nicknamed the Buck Moon.
Here’s how Illinois residents can catch a glimpse.
Why is it called Buck Moon?
The Old Farmer’s Almanac’s names for the full moons come from a variety of places, including Native American, colonial American and European sources, and they are traditionally applied to the entire lunar month.
The July full moon is called the Buck Moon because the antlers of male deer (bucks) are in full-growth during this time of year, according to the website.
When is the July 2026 full moon?
This month’s full moon will be visible on Wednesday, July 29.
What time is July 2026 full moon? When will it reach peak illumination in Illinois?
The Buck Moon will reach peak illumination at 9:35 a.m. CT on July 29, according to Time and Date.
July and August 2026 moon phases
The moon’s phases in July and August are:
Will skies be clear in Illinois during July full moon?
Skies in Illinois are expected to be sunny with some intervals of clouds Wednesday morning, according to the Weather Channel.
Highs will reach the the low 80s in Chicago and the high 80s in central and southern Illinois, so you may not need a jacket to view this full moon!
Need help finding planets, stars and constellations? Try these free astronomy apps
The following free astronomy apps can help you locate stars, planets, and constellations.
Best spots to see full moon in Illinois
The night sky can best be viewed somewhere far away from bright city lights. Find a dark, safe spot out in the country where you can see more stars in the sky.
State parks and campgrounds are your best bet for clear stargazing, in locations such as Campsite 26 at Apple River Canyon State Park and the Area 4 Parking Lot at Iroquois County State Wildlife Area. A full list of the best stargazing spots in Illinois can be found on the Department of Natural Resources website.
For those in Chicago, stars will be more visible on the city lakefront, the Palos Preserves in Willow Springs and the 606 Trail at 1801 N. Ridgeway, according to a list compiled by the Adler Planetarium.
Full moon schedule 2026
Here’s the remaining full moon schedule for the year:
CONTRIBUTING: IndyStar reporter John Tufts.
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: When is the July 2026 full moon? How to view Buck Moon in Illinois
Reporting by Hannah Hudnall, Peoria Journal Star / Journal Star
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Hannah Hudnall, Peoria Journal Star | USA TODAY Network
