Night Sky Festival
Description
Sky's The Limit Observatory & Nature Center and Joshua Tree National Park Association proudly present the 11th Annual Night Sky Festival!
Join us for a family-friendly weekend celebrating the spectacular night skies of the Mojave Desert. Explore the cosmos through constellation tours, telescope clinics, hands-on science activities, inspiring lectures from world-renowned astronomers, Family Space Camp, a glow-themed event, and an unforgettable stargazing experience. Whether you're a seasoned skywatcher or simply curious about the universe above, there's something for everyone.
This event is proudly supported by Visit 29 Palms!
Partnering to Support a Great Cause
Festival proceeds support the following local nonprofit organizations dedicated to inspiring the next generation of scientists, explorers, and park stewards:
Sky's The Limit Observatory & Nature Center provides hands-on learning experiences focused on the desert, Earth, and the night sky.
Joshua Tree National Park Association's DiscoverJTREE program connects youth throughout the Morongo Basin and beyond with outdoor education and meaningful experiences in and around Joshua Tree National Park.”
Ready to plan your festival experience?
Explore each activity below to learn more and reserve your tickets. We can't wait to celebrate the wonders of the night sky with you this October!
For accessibility information, please click here. By purchasing a ticket to the Night Sky Festival, I am agreeing with the terms and conditions found here.
As much as we love pets, they are prohibited at the event. Thank you for your understanding.
Weekend Activities and Ticket Information
TELESCOPE CLINIC
Friday, October 9 | 5:00 - 9:00 PM Sky’s The Limit Observatory $30 per telescope | Limited to 20 participants (Participants ages 12–15 must be accompanied by an adult) Whether you have a telescope that’s been collecting dust in the garage, a brand-new model you’re struggling to set up, or you’re considering purchasing one and want to learn more, this hands-on clinic is for you. Beginning at 5:00 PM, experienced astronomy mentors will be available to help participants assemble, align, and operate their telescopes while answering questions about equipment and observing techniques. As darkness falls over the desert, put your new skills to use and enjoy an unforgettable evening exploring the wonders of the night sky, from distant stars and galaxies to visible planets and celestial treasures. Space is limited, so reserve your spot early for this unique opportunity to learn from experienced astronomers and gain confidence using your telescope. Please note that registration covers admission for your group/family to work on one telescope; please bring your own telescope to this clinic for one of our mentors to help you set up and operate.
COSMIC CRAFTS
Friday, October 9 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM Sky’s The Limit Observatory & Nature Center Family Friendly for ages 6+ | Free Admission Paint a rock and add glow-in-the-dark highlights, or sculpt celestial monsters and aliens inspired by Constellation stories. These creative sessions begin just before sunset and continue under the stars. The event is free, but please register so we have enough supplies available for everyone. Self-parking is available on the STL campus at 9697 Utah Trail. Participants should wear closed-toed shoes and bring a red flashlight.
GLOW PARTY
Friday, October 9 | 8:00–10:00 PM 29 Palms Beer Company Family Friendly | Free Admission Kick off the Night Sky Festival with an evening of music, cold drinks, and glowing good vibes at the Night Sky Glow Party! This celebration brings together astronomy enthusiasts, festival supporters, and community members for a fun night under the desert sky. Admission is free, making it the perfect opportunity to gather with friends, meet fellow stargazers, or bring the whole family to celebrate the start of an incredible weekend of astronomy-themed events. Families can enjoy glow sticks for the kids, outreach tables, and music from a live DJ, creating a fun outdoor atmosphere for all ages. A portion of all beer sales during the Glow Party will directly support the Night Sky Festival, helping fund educational programming for Sky's the Limit Observatory & Nature Center and DiscoverJTREE at JTNPA. Enjoy hand-crafted beer brewed right here in 29 Palms to celebrate the Night Sky Festival, dance to music from a live DJ, and immerse yourself in a vibrant glow-themed atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned festival attendee or joining us for the first time, this exciting kickoff event is not to be missed. Come dressed in your brightest glow gear and enjoy an evening of great music, community, and stargazing spirit as we kick off the 2026 Night Sky Festival!
ASTRONOMY LECTURE SERIES
Saturday, October 10 | 1:00–5:00 PM Patriotic Hall at Luckie Park | Twentynine Palms First Come First Served (Limited seating available) Join us for an afternoon of fascinating presentations from leading astronomers, educators, and NASA scientists. These lectures are free and open to the public, with seating available on a first-come, first-served basis. Space is limited, and these sessions have been extremely popular in past years, so early arrival is encouraged. 1:00 – 2:00 pm Donovan Smith - Interpretive Park Ranger, Joshua Tree National Park "Defending the Dark" Joshua Tree’s dark night skies are one of the park’s most extraordinary natural resources, but they face a growing threat from light pollution. Join Night Sky Ranger to learn how Joshua Tree National Park monitors changes in the night sky, how we communicate those findings to surrounding communities, and what each of us can do to reduce light pollution at home. Discover how simple choices can help defend the dark and preserve our view of the stars for generations to come. 2:15 – 3:15 pm Stefanie Milam - Project Scientist for Policy and Science Community at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center “James Webb Space Telescope” Join us for an inspiring presentation by NASA planetary scientist Stefanie Milam that will unveil how the James Webb Space Telescope is transforming our view of the cosmos. Discover how Webb’s extraordinary infrared vision is uncovering hidden planets, analyzing distant atmospheres, and revealing the birthplaces of stars and worlds across the universe. This engaging talk will highlight Webb’s most exciting discoveries and share how its cutting‑edge technology is reshaping our understanding of planetary systems — and our place within the vast cosmic landscape. Don’t miss this chance to experience the wonder of Webb through the eyes of a scientist helping unlock its secrets. 3:30 – 4:30 pm Dean Regas - Renowned public speaker, author, educator, national popularizer of astronomy and an expert in observational astronomy. “100 Things to See in the Night Sky Want to know the name of that star? How do you find constellations like Andromeda, Sagittarius, and Taurus? When can you see the planets? Based on his popular book, Astronomer Dean Regas will show you the basic tips and tricks to identifying stars, constellations, planets, and more in the night sky. You'll soon be stargazing like a pro.
SPACE CAMP
Saturday, October 10 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM (Children 4-18) Sky’s The Limit Observatory & Nature Center $25 Per Child Blast off for a full day of hands-on science, discovery, and family fun at Space Camp! Designed for curious minds of all ages, this interactive experience brings the wonders of space and astronomy to life through engaging activities, creative crafts, exciting experiments, and educational demonstrations. Throughout the morning, participants will explore the science behind our solar system, learn about space exploration, build and create space-themed projects, and discover the fascinating forces that shape our universe. Parents and guardians are welcome to attend Space Camp with their registered child at no additional cost. Children under 4 get in free when accompanied by an adult. Join us for a day of learning, creativity, and exploration as we celebrate the excitement of science and the endless possibilities of the cosmos!
COMMUNITY MURAL TILE
Saturday, October 10 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM Sky's The Limit Observatory & Nature Center $10 Per Tile Leave your mark on the 2026 Night Sky Festival by contributing to our Community Mural! Paint a tile that will become part of a public art installation celebrating the beauty of our night skies, science, and our community. Each tile includes all painting supplies and installation into the completed mural. No experience is necessary. Please Note: One Community Mural Tile is already included with each paid Space Camp child registration. This listing is for additional tiles only, making it a great option for parents, guardians, or anyone who would like to create an extra tile. Tile painting takes place in the Space Camp area. Check-in is required upon arrival.
STAR PARTY HAPPY HOUR
Saturday, October 10 | 4:00–6:00 PM 29 Palms Beer Company Family Friendly | Free Admission Unwind before an evening of stargazing at the Star Party Happy Hour at 29 Palms Beer Co! Join fellow festivalgoers, astronomy enthusiasts, and community supporters for a relaxed afternoon of local craft beer, great conversation, and excitement before the Night Sky Festival's signature Star Party. Admission is free, making it the perfect place to gather with friends, meet fellow stargazers, or enjoy an early dinner with family before heading to the evening's festivities. Whether you're relaxing with a locally brewed pint or sharing a meal together, it's a great way to kick off your Star Party experience. A portion of all beer sales during Happy Hour will directly support the Night Sky Festival, helping fund educational programming for Sky's the Limit Observatory & Nature Center and DiscoverJTREE at JTNPA. This is the perfect way to begin your night while supporting a great cause. We look forward to celebrating dark skies, community, and an unforgettable weekend with you!
NIGHT SKY STAR PARTY
Saturday, October 10 | 7:00–11:00 PM Sky's the Limit Observatory & Nature Center $75 Adults | $35 Children (Ages 6–12) | Free for Children 5 & Under Experience the wonder of the Mojave Desert's world-famous dark skies at the Night Sky Star Party! With your Night Sky Star Pass, you'll have the opportunity to explore the cosmos through more than 20 telescopes, each staffed by knowledgeable astronomers who will guide you through breathtaking views of planets, star clusters, nebulae, galaxies, and other celestial wonders. Throughout the evening, enjoy guided constellation tours, captivating night sky storytelling, and live music under the stars. Whether you're a seasoned astronomy enthusiast or experiencing the magic of the night sky for the first time, this unforgettable evening offers something for all ages. Please Note: This event takes place after dark and involves walking on uneven natural terrain. For your safety, we recommend bringing a flashlight or headlamp with a red-light setting and wearing appropriate footwear. Children must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times. If you have accessibility needs or require accommodations, please contact us in advance so we can do our best to support your visit.
NIGHT SKY FESTIVAL BRANDED T-SHIRT
Take home a piece of the festival! Commemorate your Night Sky Festival experience with our limited-edition branded T-shirt with glow in the dark text. Available by pre-order, limited quantity will be available on registration day. Reserve yours today to guarantee your size and celebrate your love of dark skies, astronomy, and Joshua Tree long after the festival ends.
VIP PARKING
Saturday, October 10 | 6:30–11:30 PM Sky’s The Limit Observatory $50 | Limited to 50 spaces Skip the shuttle lines and enjoy the convenience of parking directly on the Sky’s The Limit campus. With a VIP Parking Pass, you can arrive and depart at your leisure throughout the event. Availability is limited to just 50 vehicles, and passes must be purchased in advance online. Guests who do not purchase a VIP Parking Pass can take advantage of complimentary shuttle service from designated off-site parking locations, with continuous transportation provided throughout the event. Accessible parking is available free of charge with advance arrangement during ticket purchase.
ACCESSIBLE PARKING
Accessible parking spaces are available for guests with valid handicap placards or plates. Please contact Ann Congdon, Sky’s The Limit Observatory & Nature Center's President at darkskies@nightskyfestival.org with any accessibility needs.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
