Cancer Traits, Dates & More

A true empath, those born under the Cancer zodiac sign are some of the most nurturing people out there. Cancers’ natural instinct is to protect and take care. This is a zodiac sign that feels deeply and changes moods quickly. A natural homebody, Cancers are usually known for having lovely homes—the perfect dinner party or wine night host. An unknown traits: Many comedians are Cancers, these Crabs tend to have a few funny bones.

Cancer Traits

Wondering what makes a Cancer distinctive? Here are the Crab’s top traits that make them stand out in a crowd.

• Soft Around the Edges
• Selfless
• Receptive
• Reserved
• Introverted

Soft Around the Edges: Cancer is the softie of the zodiac signs. The nurturer and mother. The protector. The confidante. Cancer wants to take care of all of the people in their close-knit circle, which includes whipping up impromptu feasts, giving hugs, offering a sympathetic ear, and doing whatever’s in their power to just make their tribe feel comfortable and content.

Selfless: Because one of the Crab’s main missions in life is to take care of others, Cancers often sacrifice their own needs to make that happen. Unlike fellow sensitive water sign Pisces, though, Cancers aren’t willing to completely trade in their self-worth for the wellbeing of others. Yes, they have their selfless side, but their over-the-top moods can change the game. If someone does something to offend a Cancer, they may find themselves out of the Crab’s protective circle faster than they could have imagined. Cancer does offer second chances, but they have to know absolutely that someone is truly seeking redemption before they offer safety and security to them once again.

Receptive: As a cardinal sign, Cancer is very receptive and open to suggestion. Cancers lead with their huge hearts, so they have strong ideas about what they want and already love, but they’re always willing to listen to other people and try new approaches. Unlike their fellow water sign Scorpio, a fixed sign in the zodiac, they’re willing to admit that hey, maybe there is another way of doing things that’s just as good as the way they’ve been doing them.

Reserved: Cancers are shy and aren’t always willing to put themselves out there. Deep down they yearn for change. But that shell is hard to crack. It’s thick and doesn’t always allow them to come out and revolutionize the world as freely or as often as they wish they could. Crabs have a reserved nature around new people, so they aren’t an open book. They aren’t easy to get to know right away, but in time they do open up to the people who have worked to earn their trust.

Introverted: In Cancer’s free time, when they aren’t with those lucky friends and relatives, they are extremely introverted and self-contemplative. They don’t fear being alone; in fact, they often prefer it to a hectic social life. Sitting in a quiet corner in a big comfy chair, reading a book, listening to music, and texting with friends and family is one of their favorite ways to relax. Cancers’ imagination can take them away to new and exciting places, but in reality, they prefer to stay in the comfort of their own home, close to the people (and furry friends) that they love the most. Cancer might not have the biggest circle of friends, but they love the people closest to them fiercely, and it’s mutual. Those who are lucky enough to call a Cancer their best friend or family member know one of the deepest loves imaginable.  

Read your Cancer Horoscope

Cancer Dates: June 21 – July 22

Cancers are born during late June and late July, between June 21 and July 22. We celebrate the Summer Solstice on June 21, which is the official beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere, during Cancer’s birthday. Although emotions can be heavy now, it’s time to wear lighter clothing and enjoy the sun’s rays and warm weather, including beach parties and spending time with family!

The Summer Solstice ushers in a fresh beginning—a time to relax and cherish what we love most in the world, which aligns with Cancer’s family- and friend-oriented ethos. As a cardinal sign, Cancers are used to initiating and starting projects, so it’s not a surprise their zodiac sign has us welcoming summer. Cancers are known for their big hearts, and bonding is one of their favorite activities. With warm weather, we find ourselves putting our relationships first and carving out time to spend time with loved ones.

As the fourth zodiac sign, and ruling over the fourth house in the zodiac wheel, Cancer represents home life, family, and a nurturing attitude. It’s the perfect time to throw summertime soirees. Because a lot of people take vacations this time of year, it’s a great time to see family and give them a little of that famous Cancer TLC. There is nothing a Cancer loves more than celebrating with loved ones. Cancer’s ideal summertime activity? Here’s a hint: Cancer’s zodiac sign is ruled by the moon. Throwing a full moon party on the beach (next to water, duh!), with all the people they care most about in attendance!