Your Guide to Every Planetary Retrograde Happening in 2024—Remember These Dates

Retrogrades have a reputation for being annoying, chaotic, and generally unchill astrological events with the power to turn our lives upside-down. But astrological backspins are actually a very regular part of most planets’ routines each year—and if you know what to expect, then the retrogrades of 2024 don’t have to be messy. In fact, when you work with their energy instead of against it, retrogrades can wind up being helpful periods of reflection, clarification, and growth.

When a planet retrogrades in astrology, it means that it starts slowing down and moving backward through the zodiac for a temporary stretch of time (this is an optical illusion, of course—planets don’t actually switch the direction of their orbit on a whim). As a result, the matters that are symbolically governed by said planets may subsequently hit delays, mix ups, or come up for review during these periods. For example, Mercury is the planet that rules communication and timing, so that’s why its retrogrades are known for misunderstandings, missed connections, and other logistical mishaps.

However, 2024 gets off to a cosmically fresh start, as Mercury retrograde wraps up on the evening of January 1, ushering us into a gloriously retrograde-free chunk of the year that aligns auspiciously with the New Year’s vibes. With all planets going full speed ahead, it’ll feel like we can move forward more freely on our intentions for the next few months, too. The major retrogrades of 2024 don’t start rolling in until April, at which point a new one will kick off during each month for the remainder of the year. The only planet that won’t retrograde in 2024 is romantic Venus, so we can look forward to uninterrupted progress when it comes to our relationships and values. At least we get a break somewhere!

Your Guide to Every Retrograde Taking Place in 2024

Retrogrades are nothing to be afraid of, especially if you’re privy to the where’s, when’s, and why’s of it all. Here’s everything to know about every retrograde happening in 2024.