Warning: Mercury retrograde happens 3 times this year, so plan accordingly
Warning: Mercury retrograde happens three times this year. An astrologer shares how to navigate traveling around the dates when Mercury retrograde occurs.
Warning: Mercury retrograde happens 3 times this year, so plan accordingly
Warning: Mercury retrograde happens three times this year. An astrologer shares how to navigate traveling around the dates when Mercury retrograde occurs.
Every year, the arrival of Mercury retrograde always somehow sneaks up on me so unexpectedly that I just wake up one morning and it’s like, “Oh, well that’s why everything’s been so effing terrible.” But this year, we”re going to be wise and note the Mercury retrograde dates for 2020 ahead of time… and try our best not to plan anything big around them.
Now not to get Astro 101 on you, but lets real quick recap what typically happens during Mercury retrograde, and how it gently tries to ruin your entire life. Mercury retrograde simply refers to when it seems that Mercury, the planet, is moving backward in the night sky. That makes pretty much everything work backward as well—technology, communication, and travel in particular.
Now, in a world where we live off our phone and it’s hard to not talk to your loved ones for three weeks, directly skirting around the tech and communication thing is tricky. But if you know the dates ahead of time, you can at least be proactive about not booking a ticket somewhere. So for the record, when is Mercury retrograde? These are the dates for 2020:
February 17 – March 10
June 18 – July 12
October 14 – November 3
Now, this first Mercury Retrograde of 2020 is kind of a dead-air time of the year. It skips over Valentine’s Day, it’s nowhere near Easter, unless you’re a late Aquarius or Pisces planning a getaway birthday bash you should be fine. But the June-July and October-November spans? Mercury is going to be moonwalking during the beginning and end of wedding season. You’re kidding me. So if you do have to make a celecation to a wedding or your vacation days just happen to be best used during retrograde, how do you do it wisely?
According to astrologer Rachel Lang, the first step is to be clear in how you discuss your plans. Again, retrograde can make you tongue-tied, or can leave you misinterpreted. So if you’re traveling with friends or family, be 110 percent clear about the logistics…and kind to one another if something goes wrong.
“Travel can bring out the best and worst in us, and we can all be more sensitive than other times, says Lang. “Be compassionate towards others. Also, be self-reflective, willing to take a hard look at your part of any communication challenges. These are important learning opportunities, when you can grow. Mercury retrograde times require patience, understanding, and mental focus. ”
It also requires a little bit of preparation, proactiveness, and positivity in case things do go awry.
“If you make your travel plans far in advance, realize they could change,” she says. “Buy refundable tickets, get travel insurance, and double check that your hotel and rental car reservations can be changed without big fees.”
Naturally, you can’t plan whatever chaos or delayed flights might occur during this time, and it’s not super worth it to hold high anxiety if, inevitably, the retrograde gives way to on-the-go friction. It’s not worth it to be fearful during this time; whatever will happen will happen. Life goes on whether you’re getting your period or experiencing retrograde (and yeah, both suck when they coincide with a stupid wedding). But it can’t hurt to mark your calendars now and keep a sharp eye to what’s going on.
“Details are important during Mercury retrograde,” says Lang. “Pay attention to the fine print, and if you feel something off intuitively, pay attention! Often our biggest Mercury retrograde mistakes happen when we ignore that quiet voice inside telling us to pause.”
The retrograde energy is next level in your weekly horoscope for February 23 to March 1, 2025! You’re ready to put a plan into action when Mercury in Pisces links up with Mars retrograde in Cancer on February 23. This can help you put the finishing touches on a plan or conversation that experienced setbacks during Mars retrograde. The tides are turning later in the day, on February 23, when Mars retrograde in Cancer finally ends. This brings you back to October 4, the last time Mars sat at this exact point in the sky, as well as December 6, the day Mars retrograde began. Similar topics and conversations are coming up once again. You may feel more confident about making a decision, setting a boundary, or steering the direction you’re headed next.
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Conversations feel heavy and serious when Mercury in Pisces meets with Saturn in Pisces on February 25. You could discuss a commitment, boundary, or even sign a contract. While this isn’t the most compassionate of planetary connections, it is good for focusing on tedious tasks and coming up with a concrete plan. There’s a new moon in Pisces a few days later on February 27. Coming through in the final zodiac sign of Pisces, this new moon helps you surrender and release so you can create space for new opportunities to find you. You might also be overdue for a good cry—this is the time to feel your feelings!
On the same day, on February 27, Mercury in Pisces mingles with Uranus in Taurus, bringing intriguing news your way. You could land on an unexpected solution to a problem or hear from someone out of the blue. People are open-minded and curious today. This is a great time to take a risk and try something new. You can also find friendship in unexpected places. Mercury retrograde’s pre-shadow period begins on February 28, so start paying attention to themes and topics that are taking up your mental energy. It’s very likely they will be revisited during the retrograde. Consider this Act I of a three-part story.
The week wraps up with Mercury in Pisces conjoining the North Node in Pisces at the same point in the sky on March 1. The North Node is a point on the ecliptic that involves your fate and destiny, and when Mercury, the planet of communication, teams up with this point in the sky, conversations might feel destined. You could meet someone who feels karmic or have a revelation or breakthrough, too. On the same day, we’re met with another retrograde: Venus retrograde in Aries. The next few weeks can bring some tension and conflict to your closest relationships, but this is also a helpful time to get back on the same page, stand up for yourself, and reflect on your values.
Key astrological events for your weekly horoscope:
Sunday, February 23: Mercury in Pisces trine Mars retrograde in Cancer
Sunday, February 23: Mars Retrograde in Cancer Ends
Monday, February 24: Moon enters Aquarius
Tuesday, February 25: Mercury in Pisces conjunct Saturn in Pisces
Thursday, February 27: Moon enters Pisces
Thursday, February 27: New Moon in Pisces
Thursday, February 27: Mercury in Pisces sextile Uranus in Taurus
Friday, February 28: Mercury Retrograde pre-shadow period begins
Saturday, March 1: Moon enters Aries
Saturday, March 1: Mercury in Pisces conjunct North Node in Pisces
Saturday, March 1: Venus retrograde in Aries
Aries
A personal situation finally starts to make more sense, Aries, once Mars retrograde in Cancer ends on February 23. If roommates or family members have acted off over the past few months, you might have an illuminating conversation with them. This can also bring a turning point to your living situation—maybe you’re considering a move or freshening up your space in some way. This is also powerful energy for releasing the past and breaking cycles that run in your family. It's no easy feat, but you have the courage to do it!
You’re setting a boundary when Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, team up on February 25. If you’ve reached a limit with a commitment or a person, it’s time to let them know. You’re ready to set a boundary and protect your peace. You might also simply crave more alone time today and reject an invitation to hang with friends in favor of having a nap instead.
It’s time to reinvent yourself once Venus goes retrograde in your sign on March 1. Over the next few weeks, you’re the main character as you reflect on who you are and how you show up in the world. You could also shift gears and change some of your personal goals—maybe a new desire captures your attention. This can also bring exes and people from your past back into your orbit.
Taurus
Conversations and negotiations that stalled begin to pick up, Taurus, thanks to Mars retrograde in Cancer ending on February 23. You’re also ready to set boundaries and speak your mind. Confrontations can be temporarily uncomfortable but protect your peace in the long run. If you’ve struggled with setbacks regarding a specific goal or plan you had for yourself, you could come up with a solution or new idea to get things moving again, too.
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You have a plan to bring one of your dreams to life when Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, link up on February 25. You could meet someone helpful who believes in you or your ideas and wants to help you reach your goal. This could also mark a stern but helpful conversation with a friend. Maybe you’ve noticed the relationship has felt off, and it’s time to address some simmering resentment.
You might find yourself pining over exes once Venus goes retrograde in Aries on March 1. This can put you in a more nostalgic and sentimental mood. You’re also thinking about hidden desires you tend to ignore. Exes and people from your past could pop up in your dreams. You might also feel more exhausted than normal—setting boundaries and asking for help could be key to your success over the next few weeks.
Gemini
Your financial situation is finally changing, Gemini, once Mars retrograde in Cancer ends on February 23. If you’ve been dealing with unexpected expenses and financial setbacks, here comes some relief. Conversations about raises, promotions, or negotiating a new role will also begin to get back on track. This can also help you make an important financial decision or set boundaries at work if you’re feeling underappreciated.
You’re signing a new contract or receiving feedback about your hard work when Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, meet on February 25. Conversations today are direct and focused on making commitments. You could make a decision regarding your life path, too. Perhaps there is a new avenue you want to explore.
Old friends could resurface once Venus goes retrograde in Aries on March 1. Friends from high school or college could pop up out of thin air. You can also expect some drama within your current friendships and social circles. This is a reflective time to reconsider your hopes and dreams for your future. Do they still feel aligned and fulfilling, or has another desire emerged that you’d rather focus on?
Cancer
You’re ready to break free from your shell, Cancer, once Mars retrograde, in your sign, ends on February 23. This energy can feel motivating and frustrating all at the same time, but it also gives you clarity about where you’re headed next. You feel confident to chase after goals, stand up for your needs and worth, and go after who and what you want. If you’ve struggled with setbacks and disappointments over the past few months due to the retrograde, things are finally starting to look up, too.
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Setting a boundary could be necessary when Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, meet on February 25. You’re also telling it like it is and letting go of any urge to people-please. Discussions can feel harsh, and this isn’t the best day to take a chance on love or confide in someone you don’t really know. This can be useful energy for studying, learning something new, or creating a concrete plan to bring one of your visions to life.
You’re rethinking your professional decisions and life path once Venus goes retrograde in Aries on March 1. There could be a new career that you’re interested in or maybe an old co-worker reaches out about a job opportunity and wants to work with you again. You could also deal with an ex or someone important from your past that could resurface. It’s up to you to decide whether or not this person is worthy of energy or if you're ready to move on once and for all.
Leo
You’re ready to kick a bad habit, Leo, once Mars retrograde in Cancer ends on February 23. If you’ve felt like your own worst enemy lately, you’re ready to break any patterns or habits holding you back. This energy can also help you set a boundary or ask for help if there’s a particular responsibility in your life that’s leaving you feeling exhausted. Moving forward, you’re more likely to prioritize your overall health and well-being—you’ve learned your lesson over the past few months!
You’re making an important financial decision or signing a contract when Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, team up on February 25. You could pay off a chunk of your credit card or get the necessary paperwork in order. If you’ve been overspending, you’re ready to get back on track with your budget. A new financial opportunity or serious job offer could also pop up.
Your mind is curious, and you might find yourself going back to school when Venus retrograde in Aries begins on March 1. This can be an exciting time to return to subjects and hobbies you used to enjoy—you might finally have the determination to take them more seriously. Some important conversions can also stall, and you will be subject to misunderstandings over the next few weeks, so don’t shy away from overcommunicating when necessary.
Virgo
Friendship drama begins to settle, Virgo, when Mars retrograde in Cancer ends on February 23. You might have a dramatic heart-to-heart with a friend that helps you get back on the same page. If you’ve also felt torn about which direction to head next and which of your goals to prioritize, this energy can help you feel more confident about your hopes for your future. You’re ready to go full steam ahead after one of your desires.
You’re setting boundaries in your close relationships when Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, meet on February 25. A long-term commitment or contract might end, or you’re having a practical yet serious conversation about the future and where your partnership is headed. This energy can also coincide with signing an agreement, or maybe someone you love will come to you for advice and support.
Try reining in your spending once Venus retrogrades in Aries on March 1. You could experience some financial disruptions like unexpected bills popping up or delayed checks in the mail. Spending cautiously will serve you over the next few weeks. Emotionally, this is also a healing time to do inner work and to process feelings you’ve skated over in the past.
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Libra
Confrontations feel good, Libra, when Mars retrograde in Cancer ends on February 23. While this energy is tense and can feel charged, it will be freeing to speak your mind. You might set a boundary at work or finally let a family member know how something they said made you feel. If you’ve felt unsure about which direction you want to go in next, this can also bring some clarity.
You’re ready to ask for help once Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, link up on February 25. Your daily schedule may have reached an unsustainable level—consider scaling back on some of your commitments. This energy is also helpful for setting boundaries or discussing any responsibilities in your life. You could also learn important news about your job.
Here come your exes once Venus goes retrograde in Aries on March 1. Out of all the zodiac signs, you’re the one with the highest chances of dealing with old lovers! Don’t worry; if an ex doesn’t show up in IRL, you might just find yourself dreaming about them or reflecting on old relationship patterns. This energy is also helpful for working out any kinks or patterns in your relationships.
Scorpio
It’s time to have uncomfortable conversations, Scorpio, once Mars retrograde in Cancer ends on February 23. You’re feeling more confident in your beliefs and worldview and in the mood to stand up for yourself and others. Speaking your mind can feel empowering, even if it stirs up some debates with others along the way. Conversations or ideas that stalled during the retrograde also begin to regain momentum.
You’re ready to walk away from a situationship when Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, meet on February 25. This can feel like a mini reality check when it comes to your romantic relationships. Some could have serious conversations about the future, while others could decide to call it quits. You might also decide to take a hobby more seriously or commit to a personal project.
You know it’s time to break a bad habit once Venus goes retrograde in Aries on March 1. You might notice that your schedule feels a bit more overwhelming than usual, and with that change, you will need to optimize your time. Your time is limited, and your energy is precious, so the next few weeks can help you eliminate unhealthy or unnecessary habits. You could also deal with some petty arguments at work or with others, so pick your battles wisely!
Sagittarius
You’re getting back on track with your finances, Sagittarius, once Mars retrograde in Cancer ends on February 23. If you’ve lost track of your budget, this can mark a wake-up call to get a hold of your spending or come up with a plan to pay down a credit card. Emotionally, there are a lot of big feelings you’ve been processing inside. This can help you have productive conversations in your important relationships and contracts.
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It’s time to break free from the past when Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, meet up on February 25. You’re having serious conversations with the important people in your life or making a decision about a living situation. You could also learn important news about a family member or loved one, or maybe you’re the one setting a boundary. Reflecting on the past can feel a little heartwrenching today, but doing so can also help you recognize what memories, patterns, and habits you don’t want to carry into the future.
You’re returning to an old creative project once Venus goes retrograde in Aries on March 1. This is also fun energy to pick up hobbies you used to enjoy when you were younger—this can help you get reacquainted with your joy and pleasure. Some exes might also pop up, and you can experience some extra drama in your romantic life.
Capricorn
You’re ready to decide to stay or go in your key relationships, Capricorn, once Mars retrograde in Cancer ends on February 23. If tension has been building in one of your close relationships with a lover, BFF, family member, or roommate—today, you’re ready to share how you really feel. Confrontations can actually be helpful for you to get back on the same page or step away from relationships that are no longer in alignment.
It’s time to speak your truth and set some boundaries when Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, team up on February 25. Conversations can still feel terse, and maybe there are some additional expectations you need to deal with from the important people in your life. This energy can be productive: you could sign a contract, make a decision to learn something new, or just power through your to-do list.
You’re rethinking your living situation when Venus goes retrograde in Aries on March 1. Home is where your heart is, but is your heart still in it? You might want to find a new roommate or find a new living situation. This can also stir up drama with your roommates or chosen family. There may be some issues that you’ve ignored that deserve some attention. This can also bring key players from your past back into your world—yes, including exes!
Aquarius
Your daily schedule is starting to feel more manageable, Aquarius, once Mars retrograde in Cancer ends on February 23. You might feel like you’ve finally optimized your routine and integrated new habits that help you feel more balanced as you tackle all of your responsibilities. This energy can also be used to step away from obligations you’ve outgrown and encourage you to set a boundary, especially at work.
You’re thinking seriously about your finances when Mercury and Saturn, both in Pisces, join together on February 25. Maybe you’re ready to return unnecessary items you bought, or you’re making a payment on a credit card. This could also coincide with negotiating a new job offer or setting a workplace boundary.
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You’re drawn to an old hobby, skill, or writing project from the past once Venus goes retrograde in Aries on March 1. This could also coincide with a temporary period of writer’s block or feeling creatively stifled. Don’t force yourself to create, just give yourself space to reflect, and imagine and know that your creative surge will return in a few weeks. There’s also a chance for some misunderstandings, miscommunication, and drama to unfold with your BFFs and extended family members.
Pisces
You’re finally full of inspiration and creativity, Pisces, thanks to Mars retrograde in Cancer ending on February 23. If you’ve struggled with accessing your full creative potential, those days are long gone. You’re feeling confident about what personal projects you want to focus on. This can also help you make important decisions in your romantic relationships or even express some of your hidden desires or how you want to experiment with pleasure in a new way.
It’s time to put yourself first when Mercury and Saturn, both in your sign, join forces on February 25. This energy makes you determined to commit to yourself and your personal goals. You’re more protective of your time and energy and aware of what it will take to reach some of your goals. You could also learn serious news that impacts you personally or set a boundary with someone else.
Some financial issues could pop up once Venus goes retrograde in Aries on March 1. It’s best to avoid spending money over the next few weeks if you can. Unexpected bills can pop up—like a dishwasher breaking or a flat tire—and payments and banking issues can also be delayed. This can be a productive time to reconnect with your own worth and helps you stand up for what you deserve.
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Confession time: I love citrus—zesty limes squeezed on my tacos, fresh-squeezed orange juice on slow Sunday mornings, and the invigorating scent of grapefruit candles when I need to unwind. But when it comes to eating whole citrus fruits? Historically, not my thing. The mess of peeling, the sticky fingers, the rogue juice dribbling down my wrists—for me, most citrus has never been worth the (literal) squeeze.
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Then, one day, my roommate came home from the store with an oversized citrus I didn’t recognize. She told me I had to try a piece, while effortlessly peeling it in one smooth motion—no mess, no struggle. I skeptically accepted a slice, wondering what the big deal was.
To my surprise, the experience was completely sticky-fingers-free. And the taste? Unlike any citrus I’d had before—enormously sweet, impossibly juicy, and balanced with just a hint of tang. That was my first bite of Sumo Citrus®—and now, I understand why The Office actress Jenna Fischer planted a Sumo Citrus tree in her yard, John Mayer peeled it on TikTok, and it has its very own merch (kind of eyeing that beanie, TBH).
So, what’s earned Sumo Citrus this devoted following? Sumo is taking the sweetness on the road for you to experience it yourself with the Tastemonial Tour—and it’s making a special stop at House of Good during our Ultimate Citrus Experience pop-up from February 21 to 23. Stop by for the hype if you're in Los Angeles, and read on to find out how this one-of-a-kind fruit became a seasonal fruit fixation.
Sumo Citrus wasn’t just plucked from a tree one day and marketed as the next big thing—it’s the result of decades of careful cultivation, according to Sunnia Gull, AC Food’s vice president of marketing. First developed in Japan in the 1970s, it was naturally bred to combine the best traits of different citrus varieties—including the sweetness of mandarins, the juiciness of navel oranges, and the easy-to-peel skin of a satsuma.
Despite its popularity, growing Sumo Citrus is no easy feat. It takes years of expertise to perfect, and California’s Central Valley is the only place in the United States where it’s grown. Even then, farmers face unpredictable weather challenges, which means every piece of fruit that makes it to the store is a result of careful tending and patience.
The first thing you notice about Sumo Citrus is its size—it’s the largest variety of mandarins. The second? Its signature Top Knot®, a bump on top of the fruit that serves as an easier way to peel it. The skin practically lifts off, revealing plump, seedless segments that don’t leave your hands coated in juice and stubborn pith.
Every Sumo Citrus is guaranteed to be incredibly sweet, thanks to each being measured on the “brix meter,” to ensure it meets sky-high sweetness standards before hitting shelves, Gull says. For those who prefer their fruit without surprise sour bites, it’s a game-changer.
Beyond its chef’s-kiss flavor and finally-I-don’t-need-a-wet-wipe convenience, Sumo Citrus packs a *serious* nutritional punch. Each fruit contains 163 percent of your daily vitamin C, along with fiber, potassium, and a flavonoid called hesperidin, which has antioxidant benefits. Whether you’re looking for immunity support, a gut-friendly snack, or a natural energy source, it fits the bill. Bonus: It’s the kind of snack I can toss in my bag and eat in two minutes flat—way better than the sad granola bar that’s been in my purse for the past three months.
And while Sumo Citrus is made to eat straight out of the peel, fans have gotten creative with how they use it. The fruit’s sweetness and juiciness make it an ideal addition to everything from bright citrus salads to zesty cocktails and refreshing desserts. Its bold flavor also complements savory dishes—think citrus-glazed salmon or a tangy dressing for roasted vegetables.
All of that creativity may be a result of the fact that Sumo Citrus is here for a good time, but not a long time. Unlike standard grocery store oranges that are available year-round, Sumo Citrus has a limited growing season, running only from January to April. This short window has created an almost cult-like following, with fans stocking up as soon as they see the signature purple sticker in stores.
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I get it—now that I’ve experienced Sumo, I fully understand the impulse to grab them while they last. The anticipation is almost part of the appeal: Like cherry blossom season or holiday peppermint mochas, Sumo’s fleeting availability makes it even more special. And when the season ends? People (me) are already counting down the days until its return. Conclusion: Do yourself a favor and grab a few before they disappear for the year. Because once you’ve had a taste of this juicy citrus, there’s no going back.
Psst: Want a taste ASAP? The Sumo Tastemonial Tour is rolling into Belmont Park in San Diego from February 28 to March 1, Boreal Ski Resort in Tahoe from March 7 to 8, Craig Ranch Regional Park in Las Vegas from March 10 to 11, and La Encantada in Tuscon from March 14 to 15—or stop by House of Good in Venice Beach for the Ultimate Citrus Experience from February 21 to 23.
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