August Full Moon: When to see the “Sturgeon Moon”

The August full moon, also known as the “Sturgeon Moon”, will make its appearance on Friday, August 28, offering an impressive spectacle for astronomy enthusiasts.

At 12:18 a.m. Greek time, the Moon will be directly opposite the Sun relative to the Earth, while a few hours later a partial lunar eclipse will also occur.

In Greece, the phenomenon will begin during the early morning hours of August 28 and will be visible without specialised equipment.

How the “Sturgeon Moon” got its name

In ancient times, people divided the year according to the full moon. As a result, they named the moons after the agricultural work or other activities associated with each particular period.

The “August Full Moon” became known as the “Sturgeon Moon” because, during the period we now know as August, Native Americans fished for the fish of the same name, the sturgeon.

Full moon at the Acropolis Museum

On the occasion of the August full moon, on Friday, August 28, 2026, the Acropolis Museum will extend its opening hours and remain open continuously from 9 a.m. until midnight, giving visitors the opportunity to explore its exhibition spaces and enjoy views of the Sacred Rock under the moonlight of the Attic night sky. Admission to the Museum will be with the standard general admission ticket, while the ticket offices and Museum Shops will close at 11:30 p.m.

In addition to the Museum’s permanent collections, visitors will also be able to explore, with a free admission ticket, the temporary exhibition “Inspiration. Ancient Greek Art in Italy”, which will remain on display at the Museum until August 30. Featuring 38 masterpieces in ceramic, bronze and marble — unique works being moved from Italian museums for the first time — the exhibition focuses on the influence, reception and transmission of ancient Greek art in Italy, from the Iron Age to the 20th century.

126 archaeological sites to open for the August full moon

In addition, on the night of the full moon, 126 archaeological sites, historic locations, monuments and museums across the country will welcome visitors free of charge, offering a unique opportunity to experience Greece’s cultural heritage under the light of the August moon.

As part of the celebrations, events will be held at 61 archaeological sites, monuments and museums, while another 65 sites will remain open to the public with free admission from 7:30/8:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m./midnight.

This year’s programme is not limited to the night of the full moon, but also includes events taking place on August 26, 27, 29 and 30. Theatre performances, music and dance events, exhibitions and guided tours make up a rich programme of activities organised by the services of the General Directorate of Antiquities and Cultural Heritage and the General Directorate for Restoration, Museums and Technical Works, often in cooperation with regional and local authorities as well as cultural organisations across the country.