There’s something magical about looking up at the night sky and here in Utah, we’re lucky to have access to some of the best stargazing in the country. The rest of 2025 is packed with free and family-friendly Star Parties you won’t want to miss.
Below is your guide to Star Parties happening across Utah this summer and fall.
Stansbury Park Observatory (SPOC)
Hosted by the Salt Lake Astronomical Society
These Saturday night gatherings are completely free and open to the public. Visitors of all ages can view the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, and galaxies through some of Utah’s largest telescopes. All events are weather permitting.
Location: Stansbury Park Observatory Complex (SPOC)
Time: Saturday nights, dusk until late
Remaining schedule for 2025:
- June 21
- July 19
- August 2, August 16 (Stansbury Day), August 30
- September 13, September 27
- October 11, October 25 (Final event of the year)
Full schedule available here
Salt Lake County Library Star Parties
In partnership with the Salt Lake Astronomical Society
Perfect for families and beginner astronomers, these events offer a closer look at celestial objects with help from local experts. Telescopes will be available, and all events are free.
Remaining schedule for 2025:
- August 1 – Herriman Library, dusk to 11:00 PM
- August 29 – Holladay Library, dusk to 11:00 PM
Did you know? You can check out telescopes from the County Library’s Library of Things collection at any branch.
Clark Planetarium Events
Wheeler Historic Farm – Farm & Sky Star Parties
Enjoy an evening of stargazing and hands-on activities provided by Clark Planetarium. Come early to explore the farm and stay for the night sky.
- June 20, 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM Reserve your spot
- July 25, 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM Reserve your spot
Location: Wheeler Historic Farm. Please park in the south lot and meet at the north lot.
Note: Reservations are required and space is limited.
Flight Park Star Party – Draper
In collaboration with Salt Lake County Parks & Recreation, enjoy an evening of stargazing atop Steep Mountain.
- June 27, 10:00 PM to 12:00 AM Reserve your spot
Location: Salt Lake County Flight Park, 15300 S. Steep Mountain Drive, Draper
Tip: This is a different location than the Flight Park State Recreation Area—double-check your GPS.
Utah State Parks Star Parties
Utah’s dark skies make state parks ideal for celestial events. Here’s a look at special programs happening this summer:
Antelope Island State Park
- June 21 – Public Star Party with Ogden Astronomical Society
Begins with solar viewing at 6:00 PM followed by nighttime stargazing at White Rock Bay Event Area
Dead Horse Point State Park – Astrofest
- June 21 – A weekend-long astronomy festival filled with hands-on activities and dark sky exploration
Rockport State Park
- June 21 – Star Party hosted by University of Utah Physics and Astronomy at Highland Day Use Area, beginning at 9:00 PM
Fremont Indian State Park and Museum – Stars and Scorpions
- June 27 – Learn about scorpions and stargazing in one unique night. UV lights provided. Program begins at 9:00 PM
Goblin Valley State Park
- June 27 – Star Party at the Observation Point with park rangers starting at 9:30 PM
Click here for more info on the star parties at the state parks
Whether you’re a seasoned astronomer or just introducing your kids to the wonder of the universe, Utah’s 2025 Star Parties are a chance to slow down, look up, and connect with something bigger.
Bring a blanket, dress for cool evenings, and don’t forget to check the weather forecast before heading out.
My favorite website for checking the forecast? The National Weather Service’s website. Just type the location or zip code in the little box on the top left of the screen.