Yorkshire Dales Dark Skies Festival
DATES: 13 February to 1 March 2026
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is set to celebrate its renowned Dark Skies Festival from 13 February to 1st March 2026. This milestone event offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of the night sky, free from light pollution, and to engage in a variety of activities designed to educate and inspire attendees of all ages.
The festival offers numerous opportunities for people to engage in stargazing. This might include guided night sky walks, astronomy talks, and telescope viewing sessions led by experts. Attendees also have the chance to participate in workshops and seminars covering various topics related to astronomy, astrophotography, and the science behind the night sky.
Many events are designed to be family-friendly, encouraging children and adults alike to learn about the wonders of the night sky.
Key Events and Activities
The 2026 festival boasts a diverse lineup of events catering to various interests and age groups. Here are some highlights:
- Planet Trails
- Stargazing Talks and Workshops
- Family-Friendly Activities: The festival offers numerous events tailored for younger audiences. The “Solar System in a Box” workshop at the Dales Countryside Museum in Hawes allows children to craft their own miniature solar system. Additionally, the “Bike Ride and Pizza Planet Party” combines culinary fun with a star-themed bike trail, making astronomy accessible and enjoyable for kids.
- Astrophotography Workshops: For photography enthusiasts, workshops will be available to teach techniques for capturing the night sky’s beauty. These sessions cater to various skill levels, ensuring participants can make the most of the dark skies.
- Nocturnal Wildlife Talks and Walks: Beyond astronomy, the festival delves into the lives of nocturnal creatures inhabiting the Yorkshire Dales. Guided walks and talks will shed light on the behaviors and habitats of these animals, offering a holistic view of the park’s nighttime ecosystem.