Forget the fireworks! Catch the Milk Supermoon this Guy Fawkes

Cape Town’s night sky is set to steal the spotlight this Wednesday, 5 November, with the year’s second-last supermoon. Set to rise just after 7:15 pm SAST - it's the same night many would usually mark Guy Fawkes night.

But this year, instead of celebrating with fireworks (which remain illegal without the required permit in Cape Town), why not look up at something far more dazzling? This Beaver Moon or Milk Moon, for a Saffa spin, will appear slightly larger and brighter than usual as it reaches its closest point to Earth. It is the second in a trio of supermoons that will light up the end of 2025.  

City warns against Guy Fawkes-related chaos

The City of Cape Town’s Safety and Security Directorate reports a welcome drop in recent years in Guy Fawkes–related chaos, with fewer complaints about fireworks and no fire incidents linked to last year’s celebrations.

Officials remain on alert for trouble in known hotspots, including Mitchells Plain, Bonteheuwel, and Lotus River, and are urging residents to report any illegal firework activity to 021 480 7700.

So, ditch the noise and smoke, as the real show’s in the sky. Head to open viewing spots like Signal Hill, Sea Point Promenade, Bloubergstrand, or Muizenberg Beach, and watch the supermoon climb over the city in complete awe.  

Upcoming supermoon dates and times: 

If September's Blood Moon and October's Harvest (Whale Moon as it's known locally) are anything to go by, the upcoming two should be equally epic.

• 5 November – Beaver Moon or Milk Moon: Rises around 7.34 pm SAST. The name dates back to the season when beavers built dams and stocked food ahead of the freeze. November’s Milk Moon honours milk’s deep cultural and agricultural importance - both as a modern staple and as a vital part of pre-colonial South African diets.
• 4 December – Cold Moon or Springbok Moon: Rises around 7.39 pm SAST. Traditionally marked the approach of the coldest, darkest weeks of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. December’s Springbok Moon pays tribute to the country’s graceful national animal, the springbok, which also serves as the emblem of South Africa’s world-champion rugby team. 

SA full moon calendar and local names

According to the Centre for Astronomical Heritage (CfAH), which has developed a uniquely South African calendar of full moon names, the upcoming moons carry beautifully local meanings. These locally inspired names reflect the country’s heritage and landscape, offering a Southern Hemisphere alternative to traditional Northern naming traditions. 

Don't Miss - South African Astronomical Observatory's November Night

Head to the SAAO’s headquarters in the Cape Town suburb of Observatory for more nights under the skies with our unforgettable tours. 

Private Night Tours dates - Booking essential
4, 6, 11, 13, 18, 20, 22, 25 and 27

Open Night date:
15 November 2025
29 November 2025

"Each tour offers a guided experience with plenty of time to explore, ask questions, and enjoy breathtaking telescope views (weather permitting!)"

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