In 2024, Mercury goes retrograde three times: From April 1 to April 25, from August 4 to August 28, and from November 25 to December 15.
Mercury Retrograde 2024 Effects
In astrology, planets never stand alone, as they are part of a whole ecosystem. When looking at the planetary patterns and themes of the entire 2024 cycle, Venus and Chiron come into the mix. All three 2024 Mercury retrogrades activate the Wounded Healer, so we can already predict that a deep and restoring energy will take place. Chiron activations are painful and never easy—however, they will truly help us to make headway concerning themes of identity, individuality, and self-mastery.
The involvement of Venus means there will be changes in relationships, especially with the Lunar South Node being in Libra. The connections that don’t make room for us to be ourselves will continue to end. Creativity, being connected to the fire element and to Venus, also comes into play. All three Mercury retrogrades will consist of changing the way we give birth to things, as well as the way we express our unique gifts.
Fire signs: All fire sign placements are due for a true renaissance in 2024. They will be inspired to be bold in their quest for new palettes, flavors, and vistas to renew their ability to create. By channeling their energy into finding new outlets that allow for experimentation, they will manage to control their bravado. Channel the fire in the right direction, and you will come out a winner!
Earth signs: Earth sign placements could be the most challenged by the 2024 retrogrades of Mercury. Fourth, eighth, and twelve house activations will require rest, relaxation, and time away from people and screen time. You will be asked to look at any subconscious patterns tied to any forms of self-sabotage. While this will be intense, it will be incredibly helpful in unrooting negative patterns and self-talk.
Air signs: Air feeds fire, so air placements will have the least challenging time during the 2024 backward motions of Mercury. By opening their mind to new ways of thinking, they will open doors to new and exciting opportunities. Since air signs will be able to think and act better than others in moments of stress, they come to the rescue, impressing everyone involved.
Water signs: Fire and water is an explosive combination—especially during the 2024 retrogrades of Mercury! Water signs will have to stay conscious of their actions to avoid emotional blow-ups. Instead of getting involved in drama, focus on reviewing your finances and redoing and reviewing projects at work, as you will most likely have to. Going with the flow will be key during these times.
Key Dates for Mercury Retrograde in 2024
January 1: Mercury goes direct in Sagittarius.
January 8: Mercury begins moving at its regular speed.
March 21: Mercury begins to slow down.
April 1: Mercury goes retrograde in Aries.
April 11: Mercury conjunct Sun in Aries.
April 25: Mercury goes direct in Aries.
May 5: Mercury begins moving at its regular speed.
July 27: Mercury begins to slow down.
August 4: Mercury goes retrograde in Virgo.
August 14: Retrograde Mercury enters Leo.
August 18: Mercury conjunct Sun in Leo.
August 28: Mercury goes direct in Leo.
September 4: Mercury begins moving at its regular speed.
November 21: Mercury begins to slow down.
November 25: Mercury goes retrograde in Sagittarius.
December 5: Mercury conjunct Sun in Sagittarius.
December 15: Mercury goes direct in Sagittarius.