Moon Phase in Vancouver Today
Saturday, May 16, 2026 · Canada
New Moon
0% illuminated
Tonight’s Moon in Vancouver
Best viewing at 1:00 PM facing S · 65° above horizon
The Moon & Vancouver
northern latitude creates large seasonal moon altitude variation
Lunar Culture in Vancouver
Vancouver's Coast Salish First Nations (Musqueam, Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh) have rich lunar traditions tied to the tidal patterns of Burrard Inlet and English Bay. Cedar bark harvesting, clam digging, and salmon fishing were all timed by moon phases. The H.R. MacMillan Space Centre in Vanier Park continues astronomical education with public telescope nights overlooking English Bay.
How the Moon Affects Vancouver
Vancouver's harbor and English Bay experience significant tidal ranges of 3-5 meters, among the largest on the Pacific Coast of North America. These lunar-driven tides govern port operations, recreational kayaking safety, and intertidal ecology. The Fraser River's salmon runs are influenced by tidal flushing patterns in the estuary.
Best Moon Viewing in Vancouver
Spanish Banks beach offers a western-facing view for moonset over the Strait of Georgia. For moonrise, Queen Elizabeth Park's hilltop (167m) gives a panoramic eastern view. Clear nights are rare - only 62 per year.
Upcoming Lunar Events
New Moon
Saturday, May 16, 2026
Full MoonFlower Moon
Sunday, May 31, 2026
New Moon
Sunday, June 14, 2026
Full MoonStrawberry Moon
Monday, June 29, 2026
New Moon
Tuesday, July 14, 2026
Full MoonBuck Moon
Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Moonphase Watches & Vancouver
Set Your Moonphase Watch in Vancouver
To set your moonphase complication in Vancouver: wait for the next full moon (Sunday, May 31), then advance the moonphase disc to show a full moon centered in the aperture. Set the time to 4:46 AM local time. Use our drift calculator to check if your complication has drifted since you last set it.
Open Drift Calculator