Star Parties in 2025

Imagine this: You’re standing in the middle of a dark field, far from the glare of city lights - our natural Hobbit-like habitat. As amateur astronomers, we tend to be solitary creatures, happiest when left alone under the night sky with nothing but the hum of tracking motors and the whisper of the cosmos. But on rare occasions, we emerge from our dark sky burrows to gather with fellow stargazers. Around you, telescopes of all shapes and sizes are aimed skyward, capturing the glow of galaxies, nebulae, and planets. The air is filled with excited murmurs, the occasional “Wow!” and maybe even the faint hum of someone explaining the secrets of the universe. It’s a rare and magical thing - like a gathering of celestial Hobbits, sharing the wonders of the night.

That, my friends, is a star party - an astronomical gathering where space lovers unite to observe the wonders of the night sky! It’s like a cosmic tailgate, except instead of grilling burgers, people are setting up high-powered optics, and instead of cheering for sports teams, they're marveling at photons that have traveled for millions of years to reach our eyes.

The list of Star Parties in 2025

If you love the idea of stargazing with fellow enthusiasts, you’re in luck - 2025 is bursting with star parties across the land! Whether you’re looking for a big event with guest speakers and astrophotography workshops, or just a quiet weekend under the Milky Way with fellow skywatchers, there’s a star party for you. The list below is comprised of this month, through January 2025.

Staunton River 2025 Spring Star Party

Scheduled for March 2025, the Staunton River Spring Star Party will be held at Staunton River State Park in Virginia. This location is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park, providing excellent conditions for deep-sky observations. The event features guest speakers, observing fields, and camping options for attendees. Participants can register through the official event website once registration opens.

Staunton River 2025 Spring Star Party registration

Texas Star Party (TSP) 2025

Scheduled from April 20 to April 27, 2025, the Texas Star Party is set to take place at the historic Prude Guest Ranch in Fort Davis, Texas. Renowned for its Bortle Class 2 dark skies, TSP offers attendees a week-long immersion in astronomical observations, workshops, and camaraderie. The event provides various accommodation options, including hillside cabins, family cabins, bunkhouses, RV sites, and tent camping. Registration fees vary based on accommodation choices, with all packages including the TSP registration fee and applicable taxes. For instance, hillside cabins start at $2,374 for double occupancy, while tent camping is priced at $389 per person aged 12 and older. A meal plan covering 13 meals is included for certain accommodations and available as an add-on for others. Prospective attendees can register through TSP's online booking system, which opened in early 2025.

Texas Star Party 2025 registration

Mid-South Stargaze and Astronomy Conference 2025

Scheduled for April 23–26, 2025, the Mid-South Stargaze and Astronomy Conference will be held at the Rainwater Observatory in Mississippi. This event features observing sessions, guest speakers, and telescope demonstrations. It is one of the longest-running astronomy conferences in the region, drawing participants from across the southern U.S. Registration will open in early 2025.

Mid-South Stargaze and Astronomy Conference 2025 registration

Crystal Coast Star Party 2025

Taking place from April 25 to April 26, 2025, the Crystal Coast Star Party will be held at Cape Lookout National Seashore in North Carolina. This event celebrates the region’s dark skies with telescope observations, guest lectures, and interactive astronomy sessions. While general attendance is free, certain activities may require prior registration or have additional costs. Harkers Island, North Carolina, serves as the event’s primary location, with ferry access available for those wishing to view the stars from the remote seashore.

Crystal Coast Star Party 2025 registration

Astronomy Day 2025

Astronomy Day 2025 will be celebrated on two dates: May 3 (spring) and September 27 (autumn). It is a global event designed to bring astronomy to the public through telescope viewings, lectures, and planetarium shows hosted by astronomy clubs and observatories worldwide. No registration is required, and participation is free.

Astronomy Day 2025 registration

Michiana Star Party 2025

Scheduled for May 2025 in Vandalia, Michigan, the Michiana Star Party is a weekend-long gathering that includes observing sessions, astronomy talks, and astrophotography workshops. This event offers an excellent opportunity for stargazers in the Midwest to connect with fellow astronomy enthusiasts. More details on registration will be released soon.

Michiana Star Party 2025 registration

Bootleg Spring Star Party 2025

Scheduled for June 19 to June 22, 2025, the Bootleg Spring Star Party will take place at the Green River Conservation Area in Illinois. Hosted by the Bootleg Astronomers, this event provides attendees with an opportunity to observe the night sky under dark conditions, share knowledge, and participate in astrophotography sessions. The event is known for its laid-back, communal atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced astronomers. Registration details and event information can be found on the Bootleg Astronomers' official website.

Bootleg Spring Star Party 2025 registration

Cherry Springs Star Party 2025

Set for June 19 to June 22, 2025, the Cherry Springs Star Party will be held at Cherry Springs State Park in Coudersport, Pennsylvania. Known for its exceptionally dark skies, the park provides an ideal setting for deep-sky observations and astrophotography. Pre-registration is required, with fees and registration details to be announced on the event's official website. Attendees can camp on the Overnight Observing Field, adhering to guidelines designed to maintain optimal observing conditions, such as prohibitions on white light after sunset and restrictions on driving on the field after dark.

Cherry Springs Star Party 2025 registration

Wisconsin Observers Weekend (WOW) 2025

Confirmed for June 19 to June 22, 2025, the Wisconsin Observers Weekend will take place at Hartman Creek State Park in Waupaca, Wisconsin. Hosted by NEWSTAR (Northeast Wisconsin Stargazers), this event brings together astronomy enthusiasts for observing sessions, workshops, and social activities. Registration details, including fees and procedures, will be announced on NEWSTAR's official website. Attendees should note that the registration fee does not include the state vehicle admission fee, which must be obtained separately.

Wisconsin Observers Weekend (WOW) 2025 registration

Grand Canyon Star Party 2025

Set for June 21 to June 28, 2025, the Grand Canyon Star Party will take place at Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. This event offers attendees access to dark skies, educational programs, and family-friendly activities. Registration details, including fees and procedures, will be available on the event's official website as the date approaches.

Grand Canyon Star Party 2025 registration

Oregon Star Party 2025

Scheduled for June 24 to June 29, 2025, the Oregon Star Party will be held in the Ochoco National Forest near Prineville, Oregon. This event offers attendees access to dark skies, workshops, and a supportive community of astronomers. Registration details, including fees and procedures, will be announced on the event's official website as the date approaches.

Oregon Star Party 2025 registration

Bryce Canyon Astronomy Festival 2025

Set for June 25 to June 28, 2025, the Bryce Canyon Astronomy Festival will be held at Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. This festival offers a unique combination of astronomy programs, stargazing sessions, and educational workshops in the stunning setting of Bryce Canyon. While specific registration details are yet to be announced, attendees can expect a range of activities suitable for all ages.

Bryce Canyon Astronomy Festival 2025 registration

Green Bank Star Quest 2025

Scheduled for June 25 to June 28, 2025, the Green Bank Star Quest will be held at Green Bank Observatory in West Virginia. This event offers attendees access to dark skies, educational programs, and observing sessions. Registration details, including fees and procedures, will be available on the event's official website as the date approaches.

Green Bank Star Quest 2025 registration

Almost Heaven Star Party pictured below

Rocky Mountain Star Stare 2025

Scheduled for June 25 to June 29, 2025, the Rocky Mountain Star Stare (RMSS) will be held at "Starry Meadows," a 35-acre dark-sky site near Gardner, Colorado. Hosted by the Colorado Springs Astronomical Society, RMSS offers attendees opportunities for deep-sky observations, astrophotography, and educational presentations. Registration fees are $75 for adults and $35 for children aged 13-17 until April 30, 2025; late and on-site registrations are subject to increased fees. Registration is open and can be completed online through the RMSS website.

Rocky Mountain Star Stare 2025 registration

Golden State Star Party (GSSP) 2025

The Golden State Star Party is slated for June 25 to June 29, 2025, at Frosty Acres Ranch in Adin, California. This event offers four nights of dark-sky observing, suitable for both beginners and experienced astronomers. Advanced registration opens in January 2025, with fees set at $75 for adults. Onsite registration is available at $85 or a $25 nightly rate. Minors under 18 can attend for free, making it a family-friendly event. Participants are encouraged to bring their own telescopes, binoculars, or simply enjoy the celestial views unaided. Camping is available onsite, and attendees should prepare to be self-sufficient, bringing their own water and supplies, as no amenities are provided.

Golden State Star Party 2025 registration

Nebraska Star Party 2025

The Nebraska Star Party is scheduled for July 20 to July 25, 2025, at Merritt Reservoir, near Valentine, Nebraska. This event offers attendees the opportunity to experience some of the darkest skies in the Midwest, with activities including observing sessions, workshops, and family-friendly programs. Registration details, including fees and procedures, will be available on the event's official website as the date approaches.

Nebraska Star Party 2025 registration

Badlands Astronomy Festival 2025

Set for July 18 to July 20, 2025, the Badlands Astronomy Festival will take place at Badlands National Park in South Dakota. This festival offers attendees access to dark skies, educational programs, and family-friendly activities. Registration details, including fees and procedures, will be available on the event's official website as the date approaches.

Badlands Astronomy Festival 2025 registration

Washington State Star Party 2025

The Washington State Star Party is scheduled from July 22 to July 27, 2025, at Jameson Lake, Washington. Formerly known as the Table Mountain Star Party, this event has evolved over the years and now offers attendees a chance to observe under the dark skies of Jameson Lake. Registration is expected to begin in April or May 2025, with fees and additional details to be provided closer to the event date. Participants can enjoy activities such as boating, swimming, and fishing during daylight hours, complementing the nighttime stargazing sessions.

Washington State Star Party 2025 registration

Stellafane Convention 2025

Set for August 1 to August 4, 2025, the Stellafane Convention will take place in Springfield, Vermont. Known as the "Mecca of Amateur Astronomy," this convention offers telescope-making demonstrations, talks, and observing sessions. Registration details, including fees and procedures, will be available on the event's official website as the date approaches.

Stellafane Convention 2025 registration

Northwoods Starfest 2025

Scheduled for August 2025, Northwoods Starfest will take place at Hobbs Observatory in Wisconsin. Hosted by the Chippewa Valley Astronomical Society, this event provides an intimate setting for stargazing and astronomy education. Attendees can participate in presentations, hands-on astronomy activities, and telescope observing sessions. Registration and accommodation details will be available as the event date approaches.

Northwoods Starfest 2025 registration

Almost Heaven Star Party 2025

Scheduled for August 30 to September 3, 2025, the Almost Heaven Star Party will be held at Spruce Knob, West Virginia. This event offers attendees access to dark skies, workshops, and a supportive community of astronomers. Registration details, including fees and procedures, will be announced on the event's official website as the date approaches.

Almost Heaven Star Party 2025 registration

Bootleg Fall Star Party 2025

Taking place from September 18 to September 21, 2025, the Bootleg Fall Star Party is another event organized by the Bootleg Astronomers at the Green River Conservation Area in Illinois. This fall gathering provides a prime opportunity for deep-sky observations, astrophotography, and networking with fellow astronomy enthusiasts. The event typically features relaxed, informal discussions, along with plenty of telescope time under dark skies. Registration and additional event details will be made available through the Bootleg Astronomers' official website.

Bootleg Fall Star Party 2025 registration

Great Basin Astronomy Festival 2025

Set for September 18 to September 20, 2025, the Great Basin Astronomy Festival will take place at Great Basin National Park in Nevada. This festival offers attendees access to dark skies, educational programs, and family-friendly activities. Registration details, including fees and procedures, will be available on the event's official website as the date approaches.

Great Basin Astronomy Festival 2025 registration

Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival 2025

The Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival is set for September 19 to September 21, 2025, at Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota. This annual festival includes guest speakers, telescope viewings, and hands-on activities designed for families and astronomy enthusiasts. The park’s low light pollution ensures excellent stargazing conditions. Registration details will be announced as the event approaches.

Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival 2025 registration

Okie-Tex Star Party 2025

Set for September 19 to September 27, 2025, the Okie-Tex Star Party will be held in Kenton, Oklahoma. Known for its dark skies and excellent observing conditions, this event attracts astronomers and astrophotographers from across the country. Registration information, including fees and procedures, will be announced on the event's official website closer to the date.

Okie-Tex Star Party 2025 registration

Pennyrile Stargaze 2025

The Pennyrile Stargaze is expected to take place in September 2025 at Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park in Kentucky. This event is known for its low-light pollution and excellent deep-sky observing conditions. Organized by local astronomy clubs, the event welcomes both experienced astronomers and newcomers. Registration details will be made available on the event's official page.

Pennyrile Stargaze 2025 registration

Acadia Night Sky Festival 2025

Expected in September 2025, the Acadia Night Sky Festival will be held at Acadia National Park in Maine. This event celebrates the park’s dark-sky designation with telescope observing, astrophotography classes, and public outreach programs led by local astronomers. Registration details will be available later in the year.

Acadia Night Sky Festival 2025 registration

Peach State Star Gaze 2025

The Peach State Star Gaze is expected to take place in late September to early October 2025 at the Deerlick Astronomy Village in Georgia. Hosted by the Atlanta Astronomy Club, this event is a favorite among southeastern stargazers due to its dark skies and well-organized setup. Attendees can enjoy observing sessions, workshops, and educational programs tailored to all levels of experience. The event typically includes a mix of structured activities and free observing time, making it ideal for both casual skywatchers and serious astrophotographers. Registration details and specific event dates will be announced on the Peach State Star Gaze’s official website as the event approaches.

Peach State Star Gaze 2025 registration

Shenandoah Night Sky Festival 2025

The Shenandoah Night Sky Festival is typically held in early October at Shenandoah National Park, Virginia. The 2025 dates are yet to be announced. The event features observing sessions, guest speakers, and astrophotography opportunities. Registration details, including fees and procedures, will be available on the event’s official website once finalized.

Shenandoah Night Sky Festival 2025 registration

Enchanted Skies Star Party 2025

The Enchanted Skies Star Party is set for October 2025 in Socorro, New Mexico. Known for its high-altitude dark skies, this event is an excellent opportunity for deep-sky observing and astrophotography. Hosted by local astronomy organizations, the event includes observing sessions, expert talks, and telescope demonstrations. Registration information will be released in mid-2025.

Enchanted Skies Star Party 2025 registration

Black Canyon Astronomy Festival 2025

Scheduled for fall 2025, the Black Canyon Astronomy Festival will be held at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park in Colorado. Known for its exceptionally dark skies, this festival offers guided night-sky viewing, astrophotography opportunities, and expert-led talks on astronomy. The event is ideal for both beginners and seasoned stargazers. Registration details will be available closer to the event date.

Black Canyon Astronomy Festival 2025 registration

Great Lakes Star Gaze 2025

Expected in fall 2025, the Great Lakes Star Gaze will be held at River Valley RV Park in Michigan. This multi-day event is one of the Midwest’s most anticipated star parties, featuring telescope observing sessions, astronomy lectures, and deep-sky astrophotography workshops. The event welcomes all levels of astronomers, from casual observers to experienced telescope users. Registration details will be announced later in the year.

Great Lakes Star Gaze 2025 registration

JRSP Star Party 2025

The JRSP (James River State Park) Star Party is an annual astronomy event held at James River State Park in Virginia. The 2025 event is expected to take place in the fall, offering dark skies, camping options, and guided stargazing sessions. This star party is perfect for those seeking an immersive astronomy experience away from city lights. Event details, including registration and fees, will be provided by park organizers.

JRSP Star Party 2025 registration

Night Sky Festival in Joshua Tree National Park 2025

The Night Sky Festival in Joshua Tree National Park is set to take place in late 2025 in California. This event, hosted in a renowned dark-sky location, offers a mix of public outreach, expert-led astronomy sessions, and hands-on telescope viewing. It is one of the best star parties for families and beginners due to its educational focus and scenic desert setting. Official dates and registration details will be available through the Joshua Tree National Park website.

Night Sky Festival in Joshua Tree National Park registration

Nightfall 2025 Star Party

The Nightfall Star Party is set to take place in November 2025 at the Palm Canyon Hotel and RV Resort in Borrego Springs, California. This event caters specifically to astrophotographers and deep-sky observers, offering dark-sky conditions in one of California’s few designated dark-sky communities. The event typically includes imaging workshops, equipment demonstrations, and guided star tours. Registration details will be available as the event date approaches.

Nightfall 2025 Star Party registration

Texas Star Party pictured below

Complete 2025 Star Party guide: Dates, locations and registration information

March 2025

• Fountain Hills Dark Sky Festival 2025: Dates: March 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Fountain Hills, Arizona | Address: Fountain Hills, AZ
• Staunton River 2025 Spring Star Party: Dates: March 2025 (TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Staunton River State Park, Virginia | Address: Staunton River State Park, VA
• Chaco Culture National Historical Park Spring Equinox Program 2025: Dates: March 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Chaco Culture National Historical Park, New Mexico | Address: Chaco Culture National Historical Park, NM
   

April 2025

• Texas Star Party (TSP) 2025: Dates: April 20 - April 27, 2025 | Registration: Open | Price: Varies by accommodation, tent camping: $389 per person | Location: Prude Guest Ranch, Fort Davis, Texas | Address: Prude Guest Ranch, Fort Davis, TX
• Crystal Coast Star Party 2025: Dates: April 25 - April 26, 2025 | Registration: Required for certain events | Price: Free (Some activities may have associated costs) | Location: Cape Lookout National Seashore, North Carolina | Address: Harkers Island, NC
• Mid-South Stargaze and Astronomy Conference 2025: Dates: April 23 - April 26, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Rainwater Observatory, Mississippi | Address: Mississippi, USA
• International Dark Sky Week 2025: Dates: April 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Required | Price: Free | Location: Worldwide | Address: N/A
   

May 2025

• Michiana Star Party 2025: Dates: May 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Vandalia, Michigan | Address: Vandalia, MI
   

June 2025

• Cherry Springs Star Party 2025: Dates: June 19 - June 22, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Cherry Springs State Park, Pennsylvania | Address: Cherry Springs State Park, Coudersport, PA
• Wisconsin Observers Weekend (WOW) 2025: Dates: June 19 - June 22, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Hartman Creek State Park, Wisconsin | Address: Hartman Creek State Park, Waupaca, WI
• Bootleg Spring Star Party 2025: Dates: June 19 - June 22, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Green River Conservation Area, Illinois | Address: Green River Conservation Area, IL
• Grand Canyon Star Party 2025: Dates: June 21 - June 28, 2025 | Registration: Not Required | Price: Free with park admission | Location: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona | Address: Grand Canyon National Park, AZ
• Oregon Star Party 2025: Dates: June 24 - June 29, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Ochoco National Forest, Oregon | Address: Ochoco National Forest, Prineville, OR
• Golden State Star Party (GSSP) 2025: Dates: June 25 - June 29, 2025 | Registration: Open | Price: $75 advanced, $85 onsite, minors free | Location: Frosty Acres Ranch, Adin, California | Address: Frosty Acres Ranch, Adin, CA
• Rocky Mountain Star Stare 2025: Dates: June 25 - June 29, 2025 | Registration: Open | Price: $75 adults, $35 minors | Location: Starry Meadows, Gardner, Colorado | Address: Gardner, CO
• Bryce Canyon Astronomy Festival 2025: Dates: June 25 - June 28, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah | Address: Bryce Canyon National Park, UT
   

July 2025

• Nebraska Star Party 2025: Dates: July 20 - July 25, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Merritt Reservoir, Nebraska | Address: Merritt Reservoir, Valentine, NE
• Washington State Star Party 2025: Dates: July 22 - July 27, 2025 | Registration: Expected to Open April/May 2025 | Price: TBA | Location: Jameson Lake, Washington | Address: Jameson Lake, WA
• Dakota Nights Astronomy Festival 2025: Dates: July 18 - July 20, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota | Address: Theodore Roosevelt National Park, ND
• Great Basin Astronomy Festival 2025: Dates: July 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Great Basin National Park, Nevada | Address: Great Basin National Park, NV
• Green Bank Star Quest 2025: Dates: July 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Green Bank Observatory, West Virginia | Address: Green Bank Observatory, WV
• York County Star Party 2025: Dates: July 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: York, Pennsylvania | Address: York, PA
• Summer Star Party 2025: Dates: July 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Plainfield, Massachusetts | Address: Plainfield, MA
• Glacier National Park Logan Pass Star Party 2025: Dates: July 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Glacier National Park, Montana | Address: Glacier National Park, MT
• Adirondack Astronomy Retreat 2025: Dates: July 2025 (TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Adirondack Public Observatory, New York | Address: New York, USA
• Saskatchewan Summer Star Party 2025: Dates: July/August 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Maple Creek, Saskatchewan | Address: Maple Creek, SK
   

August 2025

• Stellafane Convention 2025: Dates: August 1 - August 4, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Springfield, Vermont | Address: Springfield, VT
• Northern Nights Star Festival 2025: Dates: August/September 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Palisade, Minnesota | Address: Palisade, MN
• StarFest 2025: Dates: August 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Ayton, Ontario | Address: Ayton, ON
• Nova East 2025: Dates: August 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Smileys Provincial Park, Nova Scotia | Address: Smileys Provincial Park, NS
• Manitoulin Star Party 2025: Dates: August 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Manitoulin Island, Ontario | Address: Manitoulin Island, ON
• Shenandoah National Park Night Sky Festival 2025: Dates: August 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Shenandoah National Park, Virginia | Address: Shenandoah National Park, VA
• Thebacha & Wood Buffalo Dark Sky Festival 2025: Dates: August 2025 (Exact dates TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Fort Smith, Northwest Territories | Address: Fort Smith, NWT
   

September 2025

• Almost Heaven Star Party 2025: Dates: August 30 - September 3, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Spruce Knob, West Virginia | Address: Spruce Knob, WV
• Bootleg Fall Star Party 2025: Dates: September 18 - September 21, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Green River Conservation Area, Illinois | Address: Green River Conservation Area, IL
• Illinois Dark Skies Star Party 2025: Dates: September 18 - September 20, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Jim Edgar Panther Creek State Fish & Wildlife Area, Illinois | Address: 10149 County Highway 11, Chandlerville, IL 62627
• Okie-Tex Star Party 2025: Dates: September 19 - September 27, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Kenton, Oklahoma | Address: Kenton, OK
   

October 2025 - December 2025

• Eldorado Star Party 2025: Dates: October 20 - October 25, 2025 | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: X-Bar Ranch, Texas | Address: X-Bar Ranch, Eldorado, TX
• Enchanted Skies Star Party 2025: Dates: October 2025 (TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Socorro, New Mexico | Address: Socorro, NM
• Nightfall 2025 Star Party: Dates: November 2025 (TBA) | Registration: Not Open Yet | Price: TBA | Location: Palm Canyon Hotel and RV Resort, Borrego Springs, California | Address: Borrego Springs, CA
   

Grand Canyon Star Party pictured below

2025 Star Parties recap

The 2025 star party calendar is packed with events that cater to a wide range of astronomy enthusiasts, from casual stargazers to dedicated astrophotographers. Some of the biggest and longest-running gatherings stand out for their extensive programming, ideal dark-sky conditions, and historical significance.

For those looking for the most prestigious events, Stellafane Convention (August 1–4, 2025, Springfield, Vermont) remains the gold standard of amateur astronomy conventions, with a rich history dating back nearly a century. It offers telescope-making workshops, expert talks, and an unmatched sense of tradition. The Texas Star Party (April 20–27, 2025, Fort Davis, Texas) is another premier event, boasting some of the darkest skies in the country, a full week of programming, and accommodations for all types of attendees.

If extended stargazing under pristine skies is your priority, the Okie-Tex Star Party (September 19–27, 2025, Kenton, Oklahoma) is one of the longest events on the calendar, offering nine nights of deep-sky observing in some of the darkest skies in the lower 48 states. Similarly, the Nebraska Star Party (July 20–25, 2025, Merritt Reservoir, Nebraska) provides a weeklong experience perfect for both families and serious astronomers, with beginner-friendly workshops and ideal astrophotography conditions.

For those who prefer large-scale festivals with immersive programming, the Grand Canyon Star Party (June 21–28, 2025, Arizona) and Bryce Canyon Astronomy Festival (June 25–28, 2025, Utah) offer a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes and dark skies, with ranger-led programs, guest lectures, and public observing sessions that draw thousands of visitors annually. The Winter Star Party (January 27–February 2, 2025, Florida Keys) is another standout, offering a rare warm-weather stargazing experience in a tropical paradise.

With so many choices available, 2025 offers something for every type of astronomy enthusiast. Whether you're drawn to historic conventions, week-long deep-sky observing sessions, or large-scale festivals in stunning national parks, planning ahead will ensure the best possible experience. Be sure to check official websites for registration details and updates, as some of these events fill up quickly. Regardless of which star party you attend, you're sure to leave with a greater appreciation for the cosmos and lasting connections with fellow stargazers.