December's Cold Moon Will Support Your Dreams in 2024

Full moons are action-forward lunations that prompt release. Think of them as a time of high energy, when emotions run high and pressure rises. This upcoming December full cold moon is no different.

On Dec. 26, 2023, the full cold moon in tenderhearted Cancer will prompt some emotional turbulence, while also creating feelings of déjà vu. Because the sensitive water sign rules our emotions, desires, and spirituality, this lunation is all about tapping into the supernatural and accessing your intuition.

Since the moon will be at home in its native sign during its next lunation, it also prompts clarity, emotional reflection, and full-circle moments. Plus, with Mercury retrograde shaking things up for a final time this year, we can expect to revisit some of our past lessons.

Erin River Sunday, lead astrologer for Birthdate Co., suggests referring back to the corresponding new moon in Cancer, which happened on July 17. "Be on the lookout for similar themes from the summer and a progression of the storyline into a new fullness," she tells POPSUGAR.

Plus, this supercharged lunation happens to be the second full moon in Cancer this year. "It's a beautiful, bookended moment to reflect on how we both began and are now finishing the year."

Per The Old Farmer's Almanac, the December full cold moon has Native American origins and gets its name because of its arrival in the bitter winter season. For context, it's pretty common that a lot of lunations get their names from the seasons they're in. For example, December's full moon is called the cold moon because it's during the cold season of the year, just like September's full moon is called the harvest moon because it's during harvest season.

The December cold moon is on Dec. 26, 2023, at 7:33 p.m. ET (4:33 p.m. PT).

The full cold moon is in the sign of Cancer.

Generally speaking, full moons symbolize vibrant emotions, action, and release. Think of the December 2023 full cold moon as being especially emotionally potent, as the moon is at home in its native sign, Cancer. The harmonious rendezvous prompts us to lean into our emotions. "People will be especially sensitive during this time," Sunday explains. That said, it's a perfect time to check in on our emotional health and practice self-compassion.

Plus, the December full cold moon arrives days after the introspective winter solstice, a time ripe for reflection, planning, and manifesting. That makes this lunation especially strong for feeling all the shades of your emotions. As Sunday puts it, "It's a cathartic moment for processing, especially with family."

Additionally, Sunday explains that expansive Jupiter sextiles the moon and creates a trine with the sun, which will help put things into perspective. "Whatever unfolded this year, this lunation wants us to appreciate the big picture and feel the joy that is surrounding us in the present moment," Sunday says. Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, this powerful lunation reminds us of our inner power.

Keep reading to find out what the December 2023 full cold moon has in store for your zodiac sign and how you can channel the spirit world.

Don't be afraid to ask for help, Aries — and showing gratitude couldn't hurt, either. "This lunation encourages a reflection on the home front," Sunday explains. Lean into your privacy, and prepare for catharsis. As Sunday puts it, "You'll be feeling quite nostalgic for the places that held you this year." Check in with yourself emotionally before you take any action.

The Cancer full moon is giving you permission to get a little sappy right now, Taurus. It's OK for you to wear your heart on your sleeve! Sunday says this lunation may spark healing conversations, explaining, "It's a moment to talk to your favorite people and share the stories that shaped 2023." Don't hold back what you're deeply feeling.

Choose your battles, Gemini. Being exclusive with where you pour your energy can be extra grounding right now. "You will be acknowledging how your priorities have shifted throughout the year and expressing gratitude for what you've come to care about most," Sunday explains. Filter out everything else.

You've come a long way, Cancer, and now's the time to reap your rewards. With this lunation sparkling in your home sign, "it's a sweet time to reflect on just how far you've come this year," Sunday explains. It's a powerful time to praise your progress and let go of the rest. "While there were plenty of lessons, there was also a lot of individual growth," Sunday adds.

There's no shame in trading a night out for quality "me" time, Leo. If you've been feeling bogged down especially, this emotional full moon is a powerful time to open your heart space. "Taking some quiet time around the holidays to reflect solo will feel especially supportive," Sunday says. Meditation could be helpful in keeping you grounded.

Grab your dancing shoes, Virgo! This bubbly lunation is fully charging your social battery. "Remember the groups that made you feel like part of a team in 2023," Sunday says. Don't skimp out on the affection, either! Planning an outing or girl dinner at your place could be the remedy for this emotional lunation.

Feeling exposed, Libra? This full moon may see you in the limelight, whether you're ready or not. "It could be the busiest time of year at the office for you, and this Cancer full moon will mark a beautiful culmination point," Sunday says. But don't forget about your support system. Per Sunday, "Career matters might've come full circle, and you'll be giving thanks for how far you've come."

It's time for a getaway, Scorpio. Sunday says you just might squeeze in your last trip of the year. Ultimately, this is a time to keep an open mind — and an open heart — as you press forward into 2024. Your quest for something spiritual doesn't always require another stamp in your passport, either. "Even if you're just escaping into a book, though, this lunation reminds you just how expansive the world really is," Sunday adds.

A chapter is ending, Sagittarius, and it's time to let go of all that didn't make the cut for you this year. "Remember the endings that this year held, and trust the growth that each of them promised in return," Sunday says. Lean into your heart, and hold a releasing ritual to finally make peace with what no longer serves you.

This lunation will have you feeling the love, Capricorn. It's all about laying your heart out on the table and acknowledging your closest relationships. "It's a promising time for partnerships of all kinds and a moment to acknowledge 2023's most supportive people," Sunday explains. Don't be afraid to squeeze a little extra tight!

Get your act together, Aquarius, but don't forget to lead with self-compassion. "While many indulge this time of year, you might be patting yourself on the back for a successful digital detox," Sunday explains. You might also feel a pull into your emotions — listen to it, whether that's through journaling or releasing tension through a sport. That's because this lunation focuses on your emotional health and overall well-being.

Feeling supported yet, Pisces? Fellow water sign Cancer is probing your inner artist, so take this as a sign to hit send on all of your major projects! "Honoring how your gifts have evolved throughout the year will ensure you continue to expand," Sunday says. As a moment of action, don't be afraid to indulge in all of your pleasures as a reward for all of your brave accomplishments this year!

The next December full cold moon arrives on Dec. 15, 2024, at 4:02 a.m. ET (1:02 a.m. PT).