Dark Sky Festival

The Dark Sky Festival, an event that has garnered the attention of stargazers and nature enthusiasts alike, is set to take place in the majestic surroundings of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks in Three Rivers, California. This annual celebration, now in its 12th year, is presented by the Sequoia Parks Conservancy in partnership with the National Park Service.

This festival is designed for a diverse audience, including families, astronomy enthusiasts, and anyone with a penchant for the natural wonders of the night sky. Core attendees range from curious children to seasoned astronomers, all united by their fascination with the cosmos. Notable guests include expert astronomers, park rangers, and scientists who will share their insights through keynote addresses and engaging educational presentations.

The 2025 Dark Sky Festival is scheduled to occur from September 12 to 14, with a plethora of activities and events spread across these three days. The festival will feature special tours, captivating stargazing sessions, and enlightening presentations. While the exact daily hours may vary, the event promises a packed schedule that includes star parties with dozens of telescopes set up in various locations such as Foothills, Wuksachi near Lodgepole, and Big Stump in Grant Grove.

The event takes place within the breathtaking settings of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, renowned for their towering sequoia trees and extraordinary natural vistas. These parks are among the few remaining places in California where one can experience true natural darkness, making them the ideal venue for this celestial celebration. To get to the parks, visitors can fly into the nearest airport, Fresno Yosemite International Airport, and then drive via Highway 180 or Highway 198. Local transportation options are also available for those preferring not to drive.

The Dark Sky Festival is a unique and unforgettable experience that combines education, adventure, and awe-inspiring natural beauty. The festival celebrates the wonder of the night sky while raising awareness about the importance of preserving dark skies and reducing light pollution. Key experiences include naked-eye astronomy programs led by expert guides, opportunities to engage with astronomy enthusiasts and scientists, and the chance to observe the stars through numerous telescopes scattered throughout the parks.

The setting itself is a major draw, with Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offering some of the darkest skies in California. The festival will conclude each night with star parties, where attendees can marvel at the celestial wonders under the guidance of experienced astronomers. This is not just an event; it is an immersive experience that reconnects participants with the vast expanse of the universe and the natural splendor of the parks.

Attendees will have the opportunity to indulge in High Sierra dining options ranging from lodge dining to café counter service, and they can choose from a variety of places to stay within the park, ensuring they remain close to the majestic giant sequoia trees, deep canyons, and soaring cliffs that make these parks famous.

The Dark Sky Festival is free to attend, although normal park entry fees apply. This makes it an accessible and enriching experience for families and individuals of all ages, promising an unforgettable celebration under the stars that will leave a lasting impression on all who participate.