What July's Buck Moon Means For Your Zodiac Sign, According to an Astrologer

As the transformative buck moon shines brightly upon us in July, it will set the tone for an exciting and productive second half of the year. While it may be tempting to get caught up in petty power struggles or overwhelm yourself with unrealistic expectations, the resilient buck moon reminds you to resist stagnation and release old habits and toxic cycles to attract what you want.

The buck moon, also known as the thunder moon or hay moon, is set to reach its fullest state on July 21, 2024, in Capricorn, a persevering and ambitious cardinal sign. Since the strawberry moon will occur in the same sign, this year's buck moon can be seen as a continuation of the events and themes from June 21.

It's important to note that Leo season will begin one day after the buck moon, and this may encourage you to be more proactive in finding a balance between your practical and creative sides. To maximize this energy, concentrate on exploring new ways of self-expression that align with your long-term aspirations.

As the second and final Capricorn full moon this year, July's buck moon is all about acknowledging your growth and intentionally moving forward. Below, let's take a look at what is a buck moon and the buck moon's spiritual meaning in 2024.

The buck moon is a nickname for the full moon in July. The July buck moon 2024 is considered a powerful time for increased determination and self-awareness. As a reminder, a full moon is a lunar phase that occurs when the sun and moon are opposite one another in the sky. Some astrologers believe that the full moon period brings major themes of change, completion, and the fulfillment of desires. Full moons are also known for being a time of heightened emotions, intuition, and spiritual energy.

According to the Farmers' Almanac, the July full moon is believed to be called the buck moon because it coincides with the time of year when male deer, also known as bucks, begin to grow their antlers. The name buck moon is believed to have originated from native tribes who used the moon's cycles to track the seasons and the timing of important events, such as hunting and planting crops. The buck moon was a significant marker for these groups, signaling the time to prepare for the upcoming hunting season.

The buck moon is sometimes called the thunder moon or hay moon, depending on the culture or region. The thunder moon is named so because it coincides with the frequent thunderstorms that occur during this time of the year. Similarly, hay moon received its name because it is the time of the year when farmers would typically harvest and store hay for the winter season.

The buck moon will reach its peak on Sunday, July 21, 2024, at around 6:17 a.m. ET (3:17 a.m. PT).

The buck moon is in Capricorn, a practical earth sign. Because this is the second Capricorn full moon of the year, this may be a time when you are encouraged to think about your legacy and achievements. In addition to that, the energy of Capricorn is often associated with themes of tradition, responsibility, and authority, and having two full moons in this sign can highlight issues and events related to family, career, and public image.

In some spiritual beliefs and practices, the buck moon is often considered a time of growth, renewal, and regeneration, as bucks shed their antlers each year and grow new ones. This process is seen as a metaphor for personal growth and transformation, as we must also shed old patterns and beliefs to grow and evolve.

Because the buck moon is also believed to symbolize a period of increased change and self-discovery, this full moon may inspire you to tap into your inner strength and intuitive wisdom, and navigate challenges with self-control and compassion. Plus, with it being Cancer season during the full moon, this is an excellent time to reprioritize daily routines and relationships that support your need for rejuvenation and rest before Leo season officially begins.

Keep reading to learn more about the buck moon 2024 and how to work with these energies based on your zodiac sign.

If you made a big career pivot decision last month, Aries, July's buck moon helps you come to terms with it. While you may feel obligated to throw all your energy into your career and public reputation, don't lose sight of how these changes impact life at home. You may be working later hours or have less free time for family, and this could lead to burnout or strained relationships if you aren't careful. Use this full moon to help reestablish your work-life balance.

As a security-focused earth sign, you prefer to fly behind the radar, Taurus. However, this year's buck moon shakes up your publishing and teaching sector, pushing you to be more expressive and visible to the world around you. What knowledge and wisdom are you sitting on? What new ideas and discoveries are you eager to share? While there is always room for progress, don't let perfectionism slow you down. Get out your own way and show others how brilliant you are.

After last month's emotional deep dive, you may feel more confident about the internal transformation happening in your life, Gemini. Continue to lean into this healing energy. On another note, July's buck moon also focuses on your intimate partnerships and shared finances, reminding you who you go into bed and business with matters. This full moon is ideal for settling a debt if someone owes you money or vice versa or finding closure with an ex.

Whether you are preparing to take a partnership to the next level or searching for the strength to end an unhealthy connection, the buck moon offers an opportunity to communicate your needs clearly and honestly, Cancer. You may also find yourself attracted to more mature and responsible partners during this time. Use this full moon to set realistic goals and work toward building stronger connections with those who matter most to you. You know what you deserve!

While you may feel more organized and productive during the buck moon, Leo, remember to take breaks and prioritize self-care to avoid burnout. With this being the second Capricorn full moon in your wellness and work sector this year, it is a great time to prioritize your physical health and relationships with coworkers and colleagues. Are there any power struggles in the office? Are you skipping breakfast and only eating one meal a day? Use this full moon to help get things back in order.

Welcome spontaneity into your life, Virgo, as the buck moon illuminates your fifth house of creativity, romance, and fun for the second time this year. While you may have started a new hobby or passion project last month, this full moon invites you to continue deepening your connections and showcase more of your playful side. You could meet a potential match now if you're in the market for a new love interest. If you're already taken, think about how you can inject some passion into your dynamic self. Loosen up!

As much as you'd like to focus on your career and long-term goals, don't be upset with yourself or others if your energy levels are lower than usual, Libra. With the buck moon highlighting your sensitive fourth house of emotional security and domestic affairs, it may be best to reflect on any unresolved childhood issues or emotional traumas affecting your current relationships and sense of self. Journaling and spending alone time in nature could be healing for you. Use this full moon to help you release the wounds of your past.

Don't be surprised if you find yourself juggling a jam-packed social calendar, Scorpio. With the buck moon highlighting your extroverted third house of communication and curiosity, others are intrigued by your presence and eager to get to know you more deeply. While it may take you longer than others to feel comfortable talking to strangers, the buck moon encourages you to get out of your head and open up. Use this full moon to expose yourself to new people and environments. Unleash your inner social butterfly.

This year's buck moon reminds you that self-worth is an inside job, Sagittarius. Regardless of what you own or how much money you have, this is a powerful time to examine your beliefs around financial freedom and scarcity and release any limiting thought patterns that may hold you back from experiencing true prosperity. While you may be eager to pick up an extra side hustle or raise your prices, focus on what truly matters to you and tap into your inner wellspring of abundance – allow it to flow freely into your life.

Don't be afraid to take risks or step outside your comfort zone, Capricorn. With the buck moon occurring in your sign, this is a time for you to shine and show the world what you're made of. You may feel more assertive and self-assured than usual, which can help you take charge of your life and pursue your goals with greater clarity and focus. However, try to avoid getting too caught up in your ego and losing sight of your values. Trust your instincts and take action to make your dreams a reality. The time is now!

You may feel lighter and more grounded than you have in a while, Aquarius. Last month's strawberry moon in Capricorn likely prompted you to focus on cleansing and letting go of any emotional baggage weighing you down. Now, with the buck moon putting the spotlight back on your twelfth house of self-healing and seclusion, you may be experiencing a greater sense of peace and clarity due to that release. Keep trusting the process.

Pisces, the buck moon is illuminating your eleventh house of community and social connections. This powerful energy emphasizes the importance of collaboration and teamwork in achieving your goals. Because this is the second Capricorn full moon this year, a team project may be reaching a conclusion, or you and a friend may decide to go your separate ways. This is a great time to network and build meaningful relationships that can help you achieve your dreams moving forward.

The full moon following the buck moon is August's sturgeon moon.

Morgan Lett is an Atlanta-based writer and astrologer. Her work has been published by PS, Refinery29, and Popular Astrology.