The zodiac calendar has a certain sense to it. Just as we might be feeling a little isolated at the tail-end of chill Taurus season, we float on into hectic Gemini season, were our social calendars are full to overflowing. And then, it's time for sentimental, intuitive Cancer season — several weeks when we can actually deepen some of the connections we spent the last month reigniting or making.
Ruled by the moon, which serves as the emotional compass of astrology, the cardinal water sign Cancer is all about getting in your feelings and bonding with your nearest and dearest. It's no wonder this is a time when we're particularly focused on enjoying downtime with loved ones, whether we're going deep during summery getaways or by taking in a glimmering fireworks display.
While the sun is in Cancer, you could be more of a homebody — emotional, wistful, and nurturing. But regardless of whether you're staying in or going out, it's a time of year that has the potential to truly bring us closer to our nearest and dearest, and help you tune into your own emotions (a key trait of Cancer sun signs everywhere). Here's everything you need to know about Cancer season in 2023.
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When Is Cancer Season?
In 2023, Cancer season begins June 21 and ends on July 22, when the sun enters Leo. The fourth sign of the zodiac and the ruler of the fourth house of home, Cancer season can bring your focus back to your roots and inner life. With the sun shining bright and temperatures rising, beach days and summer travel could very well be in full swing, but we might be happiest when we're able to spend quality time nesting with the people who we care most for, and who care for us.
Cancer Season: What to Expect in 2023
With Saturn retrograde in Taurus starting June 17, this Cancer season 2023 could have you feeling challenged and even disoriented. Saturn is a planet of boundaries, limitations, and commitment, and when it's retrograde, it tends to ask you to turn inward and rethink — and rework — some of your foundational beliefs in life. During Cancer season, that might mean getting real with yourself about the type of friendships you cherish, or the type of friend you are to your loved ones.
It's a season that's sure to be filled with plenty of opportunities for growth and to bond with the special people in your life. Here's what every sign can expect. (Be sure to read your rising/ascendant in addition to your sun sign.)
Aries (March 20-April 19)
You're usually all about taking off on a whim, hitting the road, getting into some super-challenging workout, or signing up for a half-marathon with friends. But Aries, this Cancer season puts the sun in your fourth house of home life, which can bring out your inner couch potato. Yes, really. You'll want to stick to bingeing your new streaming obsession with your SO or loved ones and maybe even planning a staycation.
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
For you, Taurus, Cancer season is all about gathering information, because the sun will be moving through your third house of communication. Even if you're not actively thinking about collecting information, you'll be spending more time than usual with friends and colleagues. Plus, you can look forward to getting into super-animated conversations that could lead to creative, collaborative ideas and projects.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
Cancer season brings your focus to your bank account, Gemini, thanks to the sun moving through your second house of income. You'll feel confident taking on new moneymaking opportunities, taking your existing game plan to the next level, and possibly even going to bat to ask for a raise or more responsibility.
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
Welcome to your season, Cancer! With the sun traveling through your first house of self, you could be ready to make major power moves to further your big-picture aspirations. And because your personal brand will be top of mind, you could also be empowered to take steps toward enhancing your self-presentation, like refreshing your wardrobe by doing a personal styling session or experimenting with a new skin care routine.
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
Though you're generally so action-oriented, this might be a lower-key season for you, Leo, thanks to the fact that the sun, which rules your sign, is moving through your 12th house of spirituality. This is the zone that planets move through on their way to hitting your ascendant/rising sign and first house of self, so it's like being backstage before going on for the big show. It's a time to self-reflect and get clear on what you want to accomplish once it's your time to shine.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Get ready to be more social, Virgo. Although Gemini season tends to have you zeroed in on your professional aspirations, Cancer season may turn a solo or one-on-one endeavor into a group affair. That's thanks to the fact that the sun is transiting through your 11th house of friendship and networking, spurring your desire — and ability — to band together with others in order to cross the finish line on projects close to your heart.
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct 22)
Cancer season can crank up the intensity on your ambition, Libra, because your 10th house of career is activated now. If you've been wanting to step into a more senior position, pitch an exciting client, or call a meeting with a higher-up to discuss your long-term vision, these four weeks could be a particularly beneficial time to do just that. It's really time to step into your power.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
Cancer season is all about getting out of your comfort zone, Scorpio, which can be thrilling but also completely freaky for a creature of habit like yourself. The sun moves through your ninth house of adventure and higher learning during this period, which could see you stepping into uncharted territory — whether that's by taking an online class or a long-distance trip. Either way, you'll have the confidence to make the experience truly fulfilling.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
As a free-spirited adventurer, you'd rather take action than swim in your feelings, especially the deepest ones. But Cancer season will challenge you to do just that, because the sun is moving through your eighth house of emotional bonds. This moment's all about connecting on a more intimate level with your partner or loved ones.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
Cancer season throws the spotlight on your key one-on-one relationships — whether they're romantic, platonic, or professional — because the sun is moving through your seventh house of partnership, Cap. Whether you and your partner are moving toward a shared goal or you're mapping out a business proposal with a colleague, you'll have more confidence and self-assuredness to collaborate closely as part of a pair.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
Keeping your daily hustle strong and ticking off all your need-to-dos (like dentist appointments) and want-to-dos (like that new yoga class) could feel less stressful now, thanks to the sun moving through your sixth house of wellness and daily routine, Aquarius. You'll be more focused and determined to create balance in your schedule.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
Cancer season can be one of the most heartfelt, creative periods of the year for you, Pisces, because the sun is in your fifth house of romance, play, and creativity. The more you can pour those deeply felt emotions into your favorite artistic outlet or heartfelt texts to your best friends, the lighter, airier, and more connected you'll feel.
