ASTROFEST
Join us for our First Annual Central Utah Astronomy Festival!
Blast off with us April 17-19 for the First Annual Central Utah Astronomy Festival! Across three counties and three state parks, we’re hosting solar viewing, expert speakers, and three unforgettable nights under the stars.
Grab your 3-day pass now to secure your spot for the full experience.
Collect the Set:
- 3-Day Pass Holders: Show your proof of purchase at the check-in booth each day to snag all three limited-edition collectible buttons!
- Day Trippers: Day-use passes are available on-site; show your receipt at the booth to claim that day’s unique button.
Follow us here and on social media for live updates as the festival approaches!
Friday, April 17th: Territorial Statehouse State Park
11am – 3pm – Astronomy activities for all ages, information, tables and booths, and much more.
12pm – 2pm – Solar Scopes
7pm – Key Speaker: Dr. John Lundwall
Sun & Stone: The Cosmography of Clear Creek Canyon
A cosmography is how sky, landscape, architecture, ritual, and movement are integrated into a single symbolic system. Before monumental architecture, such as we find in Chaco Canyon, New Mexico, oral cultures like the Fremont of Clear Creek Canyon, utilized rock art to integrate sky, earth, and seasons. This presentation will show how three sites in Fremont Indian State Park worked as a unified “cosmogram” participating with the Sun through the year.
8:30pm – Constellation Tours
9-11pm – Telescope Viewing
Saturday, April 18th: Fremont Indian State Park
11am – 3pm – Astronomy activities available for all ages! As well as booths and tables, photobooths, and much more.
12 – 2pm – Solar Scopes
11am – 2pm – Portable Planetarium
7pm – Key Speaker: Autumn Gillard
The Amazing Nuwuvi Universe
The celestial views of the Southern Paiutes and how the night sky integrates astronomical methodology into cultural resources
8:30pm – Constellation Tours
9pm – 11pm – Telescope Viewing
Sunday, April 19th: Piute State Park
4pm – 6:30pm – Astronomy activities for all ages, information tables/booths, and more.
4pm – 6pm – Solar Scopes
7pm – Key Speaker: Dr. Troy Allan
Reclaiming the Night: Dark Skies, Awe, and Mental Health in Rural Communities
Dark skies are more than a natural resource — they are a powerful mental health asset. In this presentation, Dr. Troy Allan explores the growing body of research connecting awe, night-sky experiences, and psychological well-being, with a particular focus on rural communities. Drawing from his work with youth, veterans, and families across the Colorado Plateau, he highlights how intentional engagement with dark skies can support emotional regulation, perspective-shifting, and social connection. Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of why protecting night skies matters not only for conservation, but for human wellness and resilience.
8:30pm – Constellation Tours
9pm – 11pm – Telescope Viewing
Important Notes for Attendees
Dress Warmly: Evenings in Central Utah can be cold, so please plan accordingly.
Red Light Only: To preserve night vision, please use only red-light flashlights at the viewing area. White light is not recommended after sunset.
Parking: Designated parking will be available on-site. Follow the signs upon arrival. Parking may fill at program locations. We recommend arriving early to secure a parking spot.
Weather: Telescope viewing may be canceled or affected by clouds or storms. Programs and telescope viewing may be canceled in the event of lightning.
All events are free with park admission, day-use fee is $10.
Pets are discouraged. Please find suitable care for furry friends and please remember leaving pets inside vehicles for the duration of the event is not recommended.
For more events make sure to check out our events page!
