October 2026 brings an "avalanche of retrogrades," according to astrologist Inbaal Honigman, with Saturn, Uranus and Neptune swimming upstream all month long, while Pluto, Venus and Mercury join the retrograde for parts of the month. However, one sign stands out as the biggest victor: Leo.
Fire signs largely spared, Leo shines brightest
While many signs struggle for balance, the Fire signs get away almost scot-free. Leo is the biggest winner because Mars and Jupiter, the only planets to remain steadfast in their forward direction, are both in the sign of the Lion. This means no distractions or interruptions for Leo, bringing good fortune with finances, fitness, winning arguments and overall success.
Sagittarius, the fire sign ruled by Jupiter, is untouched by scandal. Aries is more of a mixed bag, as its ruling planet Mars has a fun and easy month, while Saturn and Neptune's retrogrades take place in the sign of the Ram. For Fire signs, Honigman advises taking the month to get ahead at work and book a relaxing break, or spending time with Leos and Sagittarians to hitch your wagon to their star.
Sign-by-sign highlights for October
Aries (March 21 to April 19): Friends, events and situations lift you up this month, even when your energy is low. Saturn and Neptune are in Aries all month, but both are retrograding, which can make you feel heavier. However, Mars and Jupiter form a favourable angle to your sign, making parties, work lunches and weddings exactly what you need to feel positive again.
Taurus (April 20 to May 20): Your ruling planet Venus goes through multiple shifts in October. Starting in Scorpio, a new secret admirer could make themselves known. When Venus turns backwards on the 3rd, you could find yourself accused of an action you did not commit, so have your alibi ready. When Venus enters Libra on the 25th, you feel a load has been lifted.
Gemini (May 21 to June 21): The final Mercury retrograde of the year starts on the 24th in Scorpio. Although Mercury retrogrades usually cause delays and mix-ups, you will enjoy this one because the intense Scorpio energy dissipates when the planet turns backwards, giving you a bit of colourful originality.
Cancer (June 21 to July 22): The moon, your ruler, visits Cancer twice this October: first from the 2nd to the 4th, then again between the 29th and the end of the month. These are the days to listen to your intuition, write in your dream journal, try manifesting and catch up with distant relatives. Opportunity knocks twice.
Leo (July 23 to August 22): The biggest winner of the month. Mars and Jupiter are both in your sign, escaping the retrogrades that disrupt other signs. Your successes will shine even brighter because other signs have a harder time. It's a physical time in your life, so make sure you hydrate and get enough sleep.
