Open fires are prohibited throughout the park from midnight to 4 p.m., Feb. 15 through April 30. Learn more.

Astronomy for Everyone

Location of Sky Meadows State Park in Virginia

Where

Program Location: Historic Area
Main Park Address: Sky Meadows State Park, 11012 Edmonds Ln., Delaplane, VA 20144.

When

Aug. 15, 2026. 8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

Experience Sky Meadows, an International Dark-Sky Park, at this monthly astronomical celebration! Our evenings begin with a half-hour children's "Junior Astronomer" program, followed by a discussion about the importance of dark skies and light conservation. Then join NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Ambassadors for a presentation on the latest news in space research. Finish the evening by relaxing and enjoying the night's beauty with the members of the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club (NOVAC) as they open their telescopes to public observation. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs and/or blankets. Feel free to bring your telescope or binoculars for your own exploration. To learn more about NOVAC and other local astronomy offerings, please visit their website.

Details:
-Registration via Eventbrite is not required, but highly encouraged.
-Parking fees apply.
-Entrance gates close one hour prior to the program end time. Exit gates remain open.

For daily self-guided dark sky observation, please access the park via the Turner Pond entrance, our designated Dark Sky Viewing Area.

stars appear over historic mount bleak house

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 540-592-3556
Email Address: SkyMeadows@dcr.virginia.gov