These Are the Best Star Parties and Astronomy Festivals in the World for 2026-From Desert Valleys to Coastal Lagoons

"There is a profound, quiet magic in standing alone under a truly dark sky, but the experience becomes something else entirely when shared with a community of fellow explorers. Star parties are the heartbeat of this experience: communal, high-energy gatherings where everyone from veteran astronomers to total beginners can share a wide-angle view of the cosmos. It's a chance to level up your astrophotography skills, learn the latest in deep-space science from experts,"

"The beauty of the 2026 calendar is its truly global reach, offering backdrops that range from coastal wilderness to ancient salt flats. Track the Milky Way from the shores of Uruguay, search for galaxies from the moorlands of England, or count shooting stars from the South rim of the Grand Canyon. Some events encourage sleeping under the stars to reconnect with the night, while others focus on the remarkable craftsmanship and ingenuity behind the instruments that allow us to peer deeper into the universe."

"Marking its 11th year in 2026, this festival stretches across two International Dark Sky Reserves ( the Yorkshire Dales National Park and the North York Moors National Park) and offers unique nighttime adventures like starlight canoeing, astrophotography workshops, and night navigation masterclasses. The 2026 schedule is highlighted by the grand opening of the "Dark Skies Station" observatory at the Danby Lodge National Park Centre."

Star parties are communal gatherings that bring together veteran astronomers and beginners to view the night sky, improve astrophotography, and learn about deep-space science. The 2026 calendar features global events in settings ranging from coastal wilderness and ancient salt flats to moorlands and canyon rims. Activities include starlight canoeing, night navigation masterclasses, astrophotography workshops, instrument demonstrations, and overnight camping under dark skies. Events take place within designated dark-sky reserves and protected areas, sometimes highlighting new observatories and facilities. The aim of these gatherings is a shared appreciation of the night sky and accessible opportunities for people to connect with astronomy and each other.

Read at Travel + Leisure