What July’s Full Moon—the Buck Moon—Means for You

Morgan McMurrin

July 20, 2024 at 11:10 PM·4 min read

July isn’t just the month of fireworks; it’s a cosmic time when July's Full Buck Moon lights up the heavens in all its celestial glory. To find out more about it, we spoke to astrologist and author of Navigating the Cosmic Streets: A Mercury Retrograde Survival Guide, Amber Mitchell (AKA @theastrolotus on Instagram). She explains that the moon’s animal-inspired moniker reflects the season of which it appears, telling Parade, “The Buck Moon gets its name because it illuminates the sky during the month when buck deer begin to grow their new antlers. However, it is also sometimes referred to by other names, like the Midsummer Moon, the Thunder Moon, the Ripe Corn Moon and the Herb Moon.”

Mitchell adds that this specific full moon is very special because of the zodiac sign it falls under. “This full moon happens in the cardinal earth sign of Capricorn,” she states. “This is significant seeing as it’s the second Capricorn full moon in a row, which is a rare occurrence. Because of this, July’s full moon will be similar to last month’s in that many of the same themes are being repeated, meaning that people will have the chance to revisit them once again.”

To uncover all there is to know about July’s Buck Moon, keep reading to learn about the enchanting properties it processes. Mitchell reveals what exactly those are, along with when the full moon will make an appearance, the energy it will bring, and what zodiac signs it will have the biggest impact on.

When Is July’s Buck Moon in 2024?

If seeing the Full Buck Moon is on your summer bucket list, set some time aside this weekend because that’s when it rises. However, you may be surprised to know that Mitchell says you won’t have to wait until nighttime to catch a glimpse of it. “The full moon will be its fullest on Sunday, July 21st in the morning at 6:16 am EST,” she shares.

What Is July’s Buck Moon’s Spiritual Meaning?

According to Mitchell, July’s full moon is particularly a powerful time for spiritual development and self-reflection. “The Buck Full Moon symbolizes growth and gaining inner strength to overcome difficult obstacles, or achieve difficult goals,” she points out. “It’s a reminder of people’s power and vitality; a reminder that the universe is preparing you for success.”

How Does July’s Full Moon Affect You?

“The Buck Moon is likely to make many people feel empowered, grounded, and motivated,” Mitchell explains. “The cardinal signs (Aries, Libra, Cancer and Capricorn) will be most activated by this moon. These signs will be triggered to release parts of themselves that they hold on tightly to and they may need to restructure some of their big goals.”

Mitchell adds that July’s full moon also influences relationships and makes people think about their futures together. “The Buck Moon will highlight the longevity and strength of different relationships,” she explains. “For example, some people (likely those with Cancer rising and Venus) will feel the strength of their relationship being tested. It’ll make people consider their long-term relationship goals and whether or not their partner’s goals align with their own.”

Mitchell tells Parade that the Buck Moon will affect people’s work life as well. “July’s full moon heavily focuses on career and ambitions because it’s in the sign of Capricorn,” she notes. “Because of that, many people will be motivated to achieve long-term goals or complete big projects, which may bring about promotions and rewards for some and highlight how others need to redirect their efforts.”

What Energy Does July’s Buck Moon Bring?

“This full moon brings about a grounding and motivating energy,” Mitchell tells Parade. “It brings forth a perspective of achievements and goals from the present lens and can make people feel like they’re finally reaching the top of the mountain. From this perspective, people can honor their past and how far they’ve come, while looking forward and appreciating the view of future possibilities."

"It can also bring about an energy that can be uncomfortable, as growth usually is, as it requires those to shift to a stronger and more resilient version of themselves, which can mean they need to move out of their comfort zone,” she adds.

What Does July’s Buck Moon Represent?

“Each full moon represents gaining clarity and release,” Mitchell discloses. “The Buck Full Moon represents the release that is necessary for transformation. You see, just as a buck’s natural cycle involves it growing new antlers each season, the antlers themselves are a symbol of strength and protection. Similarly, the full moon brings clarity around people’s own strengths and where they need to learn to surrender. It reminds everyone that people may need different strengths in different seasons of their lives and that starting over is not a symbol of failure.”

Next: 20 Full Moon Rituals To Manifest Your Best Life and Improve Your World