Dark Sky Events & Programs
Utah State Parks have some of the darkest night skies in North America. An ever-increasing number of our visitors appreciate and seek out the pristine night skies and after-dark programming we offer. Our parks employees want to responsibly manage and enhance this resource.
To keep you all engaged, check out the dark sky programs below!
State Parks Dark Sky Activities & Events
Weather can affect planned events. Please check with the state park directly for more information.
Dead Horse Point State Park
Star Party: The Geminid Meteor Shower
Saturday, December 13th at 5:30pm
What is a meteor shower? These mysterious events occur with regularity, but certain aspects remain difficult to predict! During the peak of December’s Geminid Meteor Shower, learn all about meteors, planets, moons, and other objects in our solar system! Join us for Star Party Saturdays throughout the winter, with a unique theme every week! The theme of December 13th will be “The Geminid Meteor Shower!” Meet at the Mountain Bike Lot at 5:30pm!
Star Party: Stars of Wonder
Wednesday, December 24th at 5:30pm
Join us for a special Star Party this Christmas Eve, at the Dead Horse Point State Park Visitor Center! Hot chocolate will be available for purchase from 5:00pm to 5:30pm. We’ll be using our telescope to explore some of the most magnificent stars in the Milky Way Galaxy, from binary stars to giant stars to star clusters and star remnants. This star party will be held in the Visitor Center parking lot, from 5:30pm to 7:30pm!
Star Party: Seasons in the Sky
Saturday, December 27th at 5:30pm
Throughout human history, the stars have served as our collective calendar, chronicling the passage of time. The stories their constellations tell are among the oldest seasonal tales. Learn these stories as we explore the winter sky and begin to ring in the new year! Join us for Star Party Saturdays throughout the winter, with a unique theme every week! The theme of December 27th will be “Seasons in the Sky!” Meet at the Mountain Bike Lot at 5:30pm!
Snow Canyon State Park
Under the Milky Way
December 19, 2025
Upper Galoot Picnic Area. 6:30pm-8:00pm. Bundle up with a blanket and chair to join us in exploring the night sky!
Willard Bay State Park
Geminids Meteor Shower Star Party
December 13, 2025
8 – 11 PM
Explore the night sky and watch for meteors with park rangers and the UofU Willard Eccles Astronomy Observatory. Telescopes will be provided. Bring chairs, blankets, snacks and drinks. Please use only red light flashlights. There is no fee for this event. Regular park entry fees apply. This event will take place at Willard Bay State Park, South Marina Campground.