Setting Up a Full Moon Altar: How to Celebrate at Home or Anywhere

It’s the night of the full moon—are you ready for it? The full moon is a time of culmination, a time when our intentions come to fruition. It is a powerful time for manifestation magic and for connecting with the divine.

In order to make the most of this energy, many witches choose to set up an altar. This is a space where you can focus your intention and connect with the energies of the full moon. Here are some tips for setting up your own full moon altar.

1. Choose a space. The first step is to choose a space for your altar. This can be any flat surface that you have available. If you are doing this inside, a table or shelf works well. If you are celebrating outdoors, you can use a blanket or portable folding table. Ideally, a full moon ritual occurs where you can see the moon, or at least a reflection of its light. (So open those window curtains!)

2. Gather your items. Once you have chosen your space, it's time to gather your items. You will need some basic supplies such as candles, matches or lighter, and anything else you would like to use to decorate your altar. You may also want to include items that represent the energies of the full moon such as crystals or herbs, or statues of Lunar deities. If you are using this time to cast a spell or re-charge talismans or altar tools, round up those items, too.

When it comes to Lunar crystals, many people opt for Moonstone, which is said to resonate with the energy of the moon. Other popular choices include Amethyst (for psychic vision) and Quartz (for amplifying energy). As for scent, Sandalwood and Jasmine are two of the most popular options for full moon ritual work. Sandalwood is said to promote wisdom and spiritual awakening, while Jasmine is known for its ability to induce trances and promote prophetic visions. Traditional candle colors for a full moon altar are silver and white.

3. Set up your altar. Now it's time to set up your altar! Start by placing a candle at the center of the altar space. The center candle will give you a place to focus your attention as you build your ritual trance. Then, arrange your other items in the center of the altar. There is no wrong way to do this! Work on the layout until it is pleasing to you, allowing yourself to be guided by your intuition.

4. Focus your intention. Once your altar is set up, take a moment to focus your intention on what you hope to achieve during this full moon cycle. What goals do you hope to accomplish? What do you need to release? Hold these things in your mind as you light your candles or incense and begin your ritual or spellwork.

5. Enjoy! The final step is simply to enjoy yourself. This is your altar and your ritual so do whatever feels right for you. The full moon is a time of joy, of growing as a witch and celebrating your connection to the moon at its peak. So let yourself be creative and have fun with it, knowing that witches all over the world are celebrating the full moon along with you!