Welcome back Stargazers,
We are entering a period full of wonder and making the best of intentions (not ‘resolutions’) for the New Year 2026. The celestial events occurring over the next few weeks bridge the end of one year and the beginning of the next, steeped in traditions centered on warmth, light, reflection and renewal as the days begin to lengthen. During December 22, 2025 to January 5, 2026, we observe the Winter Solstice (December 21-22, 2025), the Cold Moon (December 23, 2025), New Year’s Day (January 1, 2026), the New Moon period (January 1-5, 2026), and the Wolf Full Moon (January 3, 2026).
This is the time of rebirth of the Sun, when we light the Yule Log to triumph over the darkness, bring luck, and ward off evil spirits. Traditional decorating with greenery like mistletoe and holly, is intrinsic to believing the items keep away sickness. The Zuni and Hopi tribes of the Southwest hold the Shalako and Soyal ceremonies, with fasting, dancing, and kindling fires to mark the Sun’s return.
The Stars during this time of the year offer us repeated opportunities to reflect on our lives and our hopes for the future. The New Moon in Capricorn (December 30) coincides with New Year’s resolutions and setting intentions for the year ahead. I prefer calling these new personal themes ‘intentions’ simply because so many people fail to keep their rigorous resolutions and then beat themselves up through the new year. This is the perfect time for “road-opening spells” (practices designed to clear obstacles, remove blockages, and create new opportunities) or rituals using astrology and folk traditions. Themes of dynamic new beginnings, courage, and intentional action urging individuals to blend ambition with inner reflection can be observed. Continue your focus on mindfulness and avoid impulsiveness!
Folk traditions for the New Year include cleansing rituals such as cleaning your home thoroughly before New Year’s Eve to make space for new positive energy, but avoid heavy cleaning, showering or sweeping on New Year’s Day itself to prevent “washing or sweeping away” good luck. Burning a list of things/habits you’re leaving behind from the previous year is a powerful closure ritual.
Desires for prosperity and fortune have developed into folk customs surrounding the New Year. Eating specific “lucky” foods such as black-eyed peas (coins) and collard greens (cash) in the United States is one of those customs or traditions. Make sure you have cash in your wallet at midnight to guarantee money flows smoothly all year. And honoring ancestors before the year begins is also considered a powerful way to attract blessings and fulfill your personal potential in 2026.
As we enter the New Year, we’ll witness the first full moon of 2026 – the Super moon or Wolf Moon (January 3, 2026), so named because wolves would howl more frequently at this time of year; not necessarily due to hunger but likely territorial communication. Folklore of the Wolf Moon focuses on new beginnings and the deep cold of winter – perfect themes for the New Year! This Super moon will appear noticeably larger and brighter than a typical full moon. Native people of the Northern Great Plains also call this celestial event the Center Moon, referring to the idea that this moon marks, roughly, the middle of the Cold Season.
The best approach for 2026 is to blend the folk traditions of clearing the old and inviting luck, with the Stars’ advice to be courageous, intentional, and balanced in your pursuit of personal transformation.
Keep looking to the Heavens and enjoy their display of wonder and beauty during this special time of year. Take time to make your 2026 intentions and let the Heavens guide your dreams.
Happy Stargazing until next time.
Yours in the Stars,
Astrid