January astrology events that will kick off 2023 with a bang

From Mercury retrograde to a peaceful full moon, these January astrology events will help you ring in 2023

astrology imagery, January astrology events
(Image credit: DaryaGribovskaya (Getty))

It’s 2023! Let’s raise a glass to the January astrology events that kickstart the new year. 

While yes, Mercury retrograde 2023 is in motion when the ball drops in Times Square, don’t let that discourage you. The January full moon a few days later will bring a calming energy that we can all look forward to, plus Mars will go direct at long last, bringing us out of that slump. 

This year will be very powerful, according to our 2023 horoscope predictions, and there’s plenty underway, so let’s get started with January’s celestial scoop.   

 2023 JANUARY ASTROLOGY EVENTS

January Full Moon

When: January 6, 2023

The full moon in Cancer is a welcome start to the new year, as it’s very serene and non-confrontational. Who could say no to that? Expect to be home with loved ones during this time and soak up those calm vibes. Perhaps now is a good time to look into self-care day ideas. (Who could resist a bubble bath on a gloomy day or any day, for that matter?)  

Mercury retrograde

 When: December 29, 2022, to January 18, 2023

While it’s less than ideal to start a new year with Mercury retrograde, rest assured the transit is not as daunting as it might seem, especially since it’s only taking place in one sign instead of two. (We don’t need to remind you that this event is an excellent time to review and revise!) The first three transits in earth signs can emphasize our values and finances, so make sure your wallet is ready for what’s ahead in the new year. And, as always, pay extra attention to the ways in which you communicate and treat others with kindness.  

Mars goes direct

When: January 12, 2023

Although Mercury retrograde gets a bad rep, astrologers are particularly wary about Mars retrograde since it’s prone to making us feel sluggish and less likely to follow through with our plans. Luckily, it’ll be direct once more at the start of the year, so embrace that “go get ‘em” attitude and bid adieu to the tired sensation you’ve been fighting.  

Capricorn season

When: December 21, 2022, to January 20, 2023

"While Capricorn season is about hard work, control and determination, it’s also the time to celebrate your wins and reap the rewards of your diligent self-discipline," astrologer Michelle Bell, founder of Cosmic Fusion, previously told My Imperfect Life. "This month is a reminder that you deserve your success."

While we’re all for a practical mentality, especially at the start of a new year, we’re definitely not going to ignore the success we’ve experienced, either!

astrologer michelle bell headshot
Meet the expert: Michelle Bell

 Michelle is an astrologer and the founder of Cosmic Fusion, an app that combines your Western zodiac sign + your Chinese element + your Chinese animal to uncover your unique personality.

Aquarius season

When: January 21 to February 19, 2023

The weather might be frigid, but you’ll feel inclined to get social, be it for a cozy dinner or movie night, thanks to Aquarius season. 

"Aquarius rules greater community and friendship, so it's really concerned with social connection," astrologer Liz Simmons previously told us. "This is a really great season to get in touch with your friends far and few between."  

headshot of astrologer liz simmons
Meet the expert: Liz Simmons

Liz Simmons is a freelance writer, astrologer, and tarot reader based in Salem, MA. She views astrology and tarot as another tool in our arsenal to understand the cosmic interplay in our lives. Currently, Liz contributes astrological articles and horoscopes to StyleCaster, POPSUGAR and Astrology.com. She is also the resident astrologer at ASCEND Get Lifted. Check out Liz’s Instagram @the__crone and her website, the-crone.com.  

January New Moon

When: January 21, 2023

The next new moon is a time to reflect and start anew. Given that it takes place in the sociable Aquarius, you’ll feel inclined to join a group, volunteer or start a project with others. Embrace that need to connect, folks! 

Curious about what else is in store for us this year? Check out which planet is in retrograde in 2023 and stay up-to-date with the astrology seasons for the cosmic scoop! And of course, if you find yourself shopping at any point in the new year, we have all the gifts astrology fans love. No need to thank us!  

Danielle Valente
Digital News Writer

Need a TV show recommendation? Maybe a few decor tips? Danielle, a digital news writer at Future, has you covered. Her work appears throughout the company’s lifestyle brands, including My Imperfect Life, Real Homes, and woman&home. Mainly, her time is spent at My Imperfect Life, where she’s attuned to the latest entertainment trends and dating advice for Gen Z.


Before her time at Future, Danielle was the editor of Time Out New York Kids, where she got to experience the best of the city from the point of view of its littlest residents. Before that, she was a news editor at Elite Daily. Her work has also appeared in Domino, Chowhound, and amNewYork, to name a few. 


When Danielle’s not writing, you can find her testing out a new recipe, reading a book (suggestions always welcome), or rearranging the furniture in her apartment…again.