What is a full moon party? All the illuminating details astrology fans need to know

Have you been toying with the idea of hosting a full moon party? 

Skip the streamers, find the sage and call all of your starry-eyed friends. This lunar phase needs no introduction, and it's certainly worth celebrating.

"The full moon is all about culmination, reflection and release—that’s why a full moon party is so spiritually significant," says astrologer Michelle Bell, founder of Cosmic Fusion. "The purpose is to release old energy and prepare to set new goals and intentions."

Find the next full moon on your cosmic calendar and get ready to go big or go home.

Meet the expert: Michelle Bell

Michelle is an astrologer and the founder of Cosmic Fusion, an app that combines your Western zodiac sign + your Chinese element + your Chinese animal to uncover your unique personality.

Full moon party: get the cosmic scoop

The wheels are in motion, the wanning gibbous is behind us and it's go time. Have a look at your astrological birth chart to see what you want personally from the full moon, then invite your cosmically-attuned peers to join the festivities.

What is a full moon party?

A full moon party takes place during the lunar phase itself and acts as a way to reflect on what no longer works for you and what you need to release. If you want to part ways with someone or something in your life, a full moon party could be a way to neatly wrap things up before you move full steam ahead. Ultimately, it paves the way for the next new moon, a time in which you can set intentions and begin something new.

What should you bring to a full moon party?

Aside from the obvious—snacks and wine—there are a few astrology gifts that should definitely make an appearance at your cosmic affair. 

"Sage is the most important preparation for the night," Bell says."You can burn sage in order to cleanse the space and promote healing and wisdom."

Additionally, she believes working with crystals is the way to go. (Our expert-backed tips on crystals for beginners is a good place to start if you're new to the full moon party scene.) 

"Crystals can be a hugely significant part of any full moon party. The person hosting the event should give every guest a different crystal depending on what they want to attract," Bell advises. 

Lastly, you might want to consider bringing tarot cards and trying a few full moon rituals (like banishing spells) and even a glass of moon water.

Full moon party tips

Like any good gathering, energy is a top priority. 

"It’s important when hosting a full moon party to clear any negative energy and provide a neutral inviting space for your guests," Bell says. "It’s about letting go and liberating ourselves.

She adds, "The Phoenix is a perfect example of what the full moon represents - rebirth, magic, renewal, transformation and the sacredness of life."

So what do you think? Are you ready to give the celestial fun a try? We wish you luck as you host your party and getting rid of whatever it is that no longer brings you peace.