2020 wasn’t exactly the easiest of years, but we Raleighites are optimistic. We’re looking ahead to a better + brighter 2021 — and we’re sharing these locally-inspired horoscopes to get you motivated for the year ahead.

To create our predictions, we researched what some nationally-known experts are saying about the heavens (we link to a few of our inspirations in the trivia below). So, whether you plan your days based on your birth chart or you’re here just for fun, here’s a little trivia about the year ahead —

Most astrologers agree that 2021 will be less tumultuous than 2020, and it will be an especially good year to draw abundance into your life. It will also be a time to come up with improved ways to organize our lives.
Planetary movements will play a key role (as they always do in astrology). Some highlights: The positions of Jupiter, Venus + Saturn will enhance the importance of community in our lives. And, Saturn’s move into Aquarius is one that historically comes with some big shifts – the last time it was there, the internet was introduced to the public. See the precise movements of celestial bodies with these charts.
In the Chinese zodiac, 2021 is the Year of the Ox. This year, the element associated with the ox is metal (2020 was also a metal year, but was the Year of the Rat). For all signs of the Chinese zodiac, the year will bring prosperity and luck in business ventures, as well as wellness. Experts say to be on the lookout for new career opportunities as well. DYK: The Chinese New Year is a lunar event, usually celebrated between mid-January and February. This year it’s on Feb. 12.

Ready to see what 2021 has in store, based on your stars? 🌟 Read on to discover what the signs predict for the year ahead, Raleigh-style.

♒ Aquarius | January 20-February 18

You’ve never had trouble channeling stress into creativity, Aquarius, and last year was no different. This year, you have plenty of output to work with – and a little bit of distance to start doing it. The dreams + visions you had last year are ready to be formed and created, so start signing up for those entrepreneurial pitch parties, as well as a few creative workshops, to keep it all organized and flowing.

♓ Pisces | February 19-March 20

If you catch yourself ruminating on the events of last year, Pisces, remember to refocus on the present and really experience the here + now and set your goals to step into a brighter future. We like the locally-relevant metaphor of the Devil’s Tramping Grounds, a circular spot of barren ground near Bear Creek, being surrounded by the beauty of our Central NC woods — you just have to pick a direction. So take a deep breath and feel yourself grow.

♈ Aries | March 21-April 19

This year, you’re all about community. Whether you decide to join one of our city boards + commissions to help make local decisions, decide to support local when you shop, or just make a plan to spend more time with your family and friends, your own propensity to be an influence close to home – in your community, your county, or even your neighborhood – will be a theme of your entire year. Remember, even though getting bogged down in seemingly small details can be annoying to you, change happens one step at a time.

♉ Taurus | April 20–May 20

2020’s mile-a-minute shifts were likely hard on you, Taurus, so you’ll be ready for some of the peacefulness 2021 will bring. Remember that things won’t slow down all at once, so be prepared to keep moving and breaking through old patterns to newer, brighter days ahead. Keep your spirits up and indulge your need for self-care and luxury by planning some spa days throughout the year (try to hit a few of our local spots like Lorena Luca, the Umstead Hotel & Spa, or White Dahlia).

♊ Gemini | May 21–June 20

Some of the frustration you felt last year will evolve into excitement when you see the new opportunities heading your way. We recommend channeling the energy of all that possibility by getting out into our gorgeous mountains – here’s a hiking + running guide to get you planning. This is also a great year to jump into a new project you’ve been wanting to take on for a while. Sign up for some local classes and workshops (maybe through NC State’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute or Triangle Writing Group, or SkillPop) to get you going.

♋ Cancer | June 21–July 22

Cancer loves the feeling of being at home in the world, so this year’s change of pace should be grounding for you. From your own personal home space to how you fit into your community, you’ll thrive by feeling secure + supported. That doesn’t mean you should always stick within your comfort zone, though; rather, this year will continue to force you out of old habits and help you grow. Our tip? Road trip to some of our sister cities, like Greenville, SC or Black Mountain — or step outside of your usual routine locally by checking out our outdoor art installations and hitting up the Triangle beer trail.

♌ Leo | July 23–August 22

Leo, you were great at being optimistic last year, and this year you’ll have even more opportunities to be the life of the party. While we’re all still taking safety precautions, you’re the perfect host for friends and family who have been longing to visit the city. We suggest taking them to visit some of our local brunch spots, or playing tour guide at some of Raleigh’s hidden gems.

♍ Virgo | August 23–September 22

You worked really hard to make the best of a challenging last year, so take some opportunities to lay down those additional responsibilities this year. 2021 will throw a few curveballs your way, but among those will be lots of new + exciting opportunities, so prepare to figure out what’s really worth your time and effort and you’ll be rewarded. We recommend planning some solitary hikes in our beautiful natural settings to help you center and listen to your inner voice.

♎ Libra | September 23–October 22

You’ll be motivated to take up some new causes this year, thanks to some major priority shifts that resulted from your experiences in 2020. While you’ve always had a strong sense of who you are + your values, you’ll have even more breakthroughs this year that will help you feel confident and in ownership of your strengths. Put that motivation to work by lending a hand locally – it will be a good way to start re-expanding your social circles when it’s safe to do so, as well.

♏ Scorpio | October 23–November 21

If you’re being honest with yourself, Scorpio, you kind of enjoyed some of the tumultuous times of 2020, which fueled your creative spirit and inspired you to think on your feet. Don’t worry – even though some things will settle down this year, the resulting stability will allow you new freedom to explore + expand. We recommend really exploring that creative side by spending a day downtown, or finally jumping on that coworking pass and carving away some time for your professional pursuits or passion projects.

♐ Sagittarius | November 22–December 21

Your philosophical + independent spirit got a lot out of quarantining last year, but there’s no reason to give up all you learned and studied even though it’s a new year. Take the opportunity this year to truly become a local expert – this piece on the history of the Sir Walter Hotel is a great place to start, or maybe you’d rather dive into the history of the Oberlin Village? And, remember to attune to your own well-being– it might be a perfect moment to kickstart your biking habit.

♑ Capricorn | December 22–January 19

2021 could hold some big surprises + shifts for you, Capricorn, from career changes to big travel plans – and you’ll be up for all of it. Feel free to let loose a little this year. You have a lot of extra energy to work with that you stored up last year, and you’ll get the most from spending it pursuing all the exciting things coming your way. We recommend taking a staycation at the Origin Hotel to help you settle and start to plan for the future.