A moon's full cycle of phases lasts only 29 1/2 days, slightly less than your average calendar month. So occasionally, a calendar year will hold thirteen full moons rather than twelve.
A "blue moon" is, as defined by the Old Farmer's Almanac, an extra full moon in a particular season. Each season typically contains only three full moons, but when a fourth occurs, the third moon is called "the blue moon."
A newer definition of a blue moon is the second full moon occurring within a calendar month.
Debate continues about which definition is "better," either way, we can expect our next blue moon August 31.
See for Yourself:
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