Venus Retrograde 2026
The period: October 3 – November 13, Scorpio → Libra. Dates for the period, what to do and what to avoid, and who feels it most.
- Step 1 · entering the shadowAug 31Venus crosses the degrees of the coming retrograde: the themes that will surface are already taking shape.
- Step 2 · turning backwardOct 3 · 06:40 UTCStation in Scorpio at 8°. Tension peaks 1–2 days before and after.
- Step 3 · turning forwardNov 13 · 23:50 UTCStation in Libra at 22°. Misunderstandings begin to clear.
- Step 4 · leaving the shadowDec 15Venus is back at the point of the first station. It is safe to start something new.
What is happening
Every year and a half to two years, Venus appears to move backward for about six weeks. In astrology this is a time to review relationships, values and spending: old feelings, exes and unfinished money matters can resurface.
Venus does not forbid loving or buying, but it asks you to choose more carefully: what you decide now often has to be revisited later.
What to do and what to avoid
General guidance for every sign.
What to do
- Review your budget
- Talk about feelings
- Repair old things
What to avoid
- Big purchases
- Changing your look
- New romances
Who feels it most
Most affected: the signs where the retrograde runs and the signs ruled by Venus.
Other signs feel it more gently. This is a general Sun-sign outlook; for precision, look at the house and aspects in your natal chart.
Frequently asked questions
When is Venus retrograde in 2026?
October 3 – November 13 (Scorpio → Libra).
Can I make purchases during Venus retrograde?
Small and necessary purchases are fine. It is better to put big purchases, cosmetic surgery and a change of look off until after the planet leaves its shadow.
What is the retrograde shadow?
These are the weeks before and after a retrograde when the planet crosses the same degrees. In 2026, the nearest shadow runs from August 31 to December 15.