Although January is typically associated with starting over and trying something new, there’s something about summertime that’s always felt better suited to new beginnings to me. Maybe that’s why I feel like most summer activities to do based on your zodiac sign should be optimistic undertakings: Learning new skills, exploring new places, doing something that seizes whatever opportunities you’ve got, taking them, and running with them. I’m also a big fan of eating as much ice cream as possible while doing it all, because, y’know, it’s just not summer without ice cream. (Or maybe that’s just me… but somehow, I doubt it.)
Taking your astrological sign into consideration is, of course, far from the only way to pick out an activity to keep you occupied this season; particularly if you don’t believe in astrology, it’s a totally arbitrary method. But even if what’s written in ~the stars~ isn't really your jam, it can still be weirdly amusing to consider what kind of personality you’re “supposed” to have because of your birthday — and hey, research has shown that there might be some truth to astrological personality traits after all.
Unless you work in education or academia, odds are that “summer vacation” isn’t a thing for you anymore; no matter what your schedule is like, though, I’m willing to bet that there’s a lot you’re looking forward to during the warmer months. If one of those things is an ongoing project you can work on throughout the season, you might find a few ideas below. Don’t be afraid to try any or all of them — or something else entirely. And most important of all: Have fun!
Aries (March 21 – April 19)
Go on a getaway. Adventurous and energetic, Aries would do well to hit the road (or sky, or sea) this summer. You’ll get to satisfy your need to for excitement, and if you’re traveling with a group, your organizational skills will help you plan the perfect buddy trip. Just be sure to take everyone’s preferences into account, and try not to jump into things too quickly; not everyone is as gung-ho about charging into the unknown as you are.
Taurus (April 20 –May 20)
Learn how to do something you’ve always wished you knew how to do. Patient, practical Taurus excels at seeing whatever they do through to the very end, so summer is the perfect time to start learning a skill you’ve always wanted to have. A little self-reflection will help you figure out what that skill might be, whether it’s coding, painting, fixing your car, surfing, or even writing a song. Your innate commitment to anything you undertake will come in handy here, although try not to bristle if you get some criticism from those guiding; your teachers are just trying to help you succeed, after all. Pairing up with a friend while you learn will suit your loyal nature well.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Run away and join the circus. Gemini dislikes repetition and routine, so it’s time to shake things up! If you can’t actually run away and join the circus, though (understandable), you might still think about accomplishing that same goal in other, less literal ways: Take a class at a trapeze school, learn how to juggle, sharpen up your face painting skills… you get the idea. These activities are both fun and sociable, and they’ll lift you up if you start to feel gloomy.
Cancer (June 21 –July 22)
Commune with nature. Cancer isn’t really known for its love of the great outdoors — which is exactly why it’s worth making getting outside as often as possible a goal for the summer: While being a homebody is all well and good, it’s good to get out and about every now and again. Besides, Cancer, you love hanging out in or by the water — and what better way to do that than by going on an afternoon hike, or taking a camping trip, or learning to fish?
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22)
DIY something cool. Creative Leo is attracted to bright colors and beautiful things, so if you’ve been eyeing a stunning wall hanging, a bold piece of furniture, or a quirky coffee mug, why not learn how to DIY it instead? The scale of your project can be large or small — totally up to you. Whatever it is, though, make it uniquely yours. Here are a couple of ideas to get you started; you can also make it a joint effort with your favorite friend or loved one if you want to get your people fix while you’re at it.
Virgo (Aug. 23 –Sept. 22)
Slow down. Although Virgo is hardworking and loyal to a fault, sometimes those qualities get the better of you — so this summer, learn how to relax and not be so hard on yourself. Get into meditation. Find a hobby that helps ease your anxiety. Learn how to enjoy something just for the sake of doing it, not because you’re ticking something off your to do list. It’s OK to slow down every now and again; you deserve a break.
Libra (Sept. 23 –Oct. 22)
Become a master mixologist. Or, if not a master of all cocktails, then at least learn how to make one really good cocktail — after all, Libra is usually more interested in quality than quantity. There’s both an art and a science to a good mixed drink, which will suit your keen intellect; what’s more, making something delicious with the intention of sharing it with your friends and loved ones is a great way to satisfy your need for companionship. The drinks don't need to be alcoholic if that's not your jam, either; there's definitely something to be said for a good mocktail.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 –Nov. 21)
Get physical. Here’s a summer challenge for brave, determined Scorpio: Learn how to rock climb. Your stubbornness and refusal to give up will stand you in good stead as you work towards conquering the climbing wall; plus, it’s a terrific activity to do with friends you trust. And hey, if you’ve got any anger or frustration, climbing it out can be a great way to deal with it. You’ve got this!
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 –Dec. 21)
Rediscover your inner child. Sure, you could do that by taking a trip to your favorite nostalgic locations (or to locations you always wanted to go, but never got the chance to); after all, Sagittarius is the biggest traveler of the zodiac. But freedom also matters a great deal to you, and honestly, there’s no greater freedom as an adult than letting yourself be a kid every now and again. So, go ahead and take that trip — but also go ride a roller coaster, blow bubbles on the back porch, eat a ridiculous ice cream cone, exercise your curiosity, and allow yourself to be as silly as you like.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 –Jan. 19)
Declutter your life. You don’t have to go all Marie Kondo on everything, but if that philosophy appeals to your disciplined sensibilities, Capricorn, go for it. After you’ve cleaned out anything you don’t need, have a garage or rummage sale, or a swap with your friends or coworkers, or send a donation to an organization that could use it. You can also declutter other aspects of your life, too; if you’ve found that a friendship or other relationship has turned toxic, allow yourself to let it go.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 –Feb. 18)
Volunteer for a cause you believe in. Aquarius can be shy and quiet, but also fiercely humanitarian and always willing to fight the good fight. Donate as much time as you can spare this summer to volunteering for a cause that matters to you, whether it’s making phone calls or canvassing for a politician you support or becoming a clinic escort for Planned Parenthood. You’ll feed your soul while accomplishing something huge.
Pisces (Feb. 19 –March 20)
Step out of your comfort zone. Pisces, although creative and imaginative, can sometimes find it hard to take risks; the fear of criticism easily becomes paralyzing. (As a Pisces myself, this is a feeling I know well.) So, this summer, put your creativity to good use while also challenging one of your greatest weaknesses:Step out of your comfort zone and put yourself out there. Maybe that means signing up for an open mic night; maybe it means simply playing a song for a close friend or loved on that you wrote yourself, even though you never, ever perform for anyone, ever.
No matter you choose to do this summer, make the most of it. Try something new. Go somewhere you’ve never been. Do something you’ve never done before. The world, as they say, is your oyster — and now is the perfect time to accept everything it has to offer.
