Winter Meteor Shower and Star Party - Virginia
December 20, 2025 — 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm ET
Last day to register: December 18, 2025
Join TVOP for an evening under the stars as we learn from Virginia State Park staff and NASA representatives about the importance of preserving dark skies, light conservation, and the latest in space exploration.
We'll spend the rest of the evening viewing the stars, planets, galaxies and meteors up close using telescopes under the guidance of members from the Northern Virginia Astronomy Club.
Winter offers some of the clearest and crispest skies for optimal stargazing. Bundle up and join us as we observe the night sky from one of Virginia's designated International Dark Sky Parks!
We ask folks under the age of 18 to please register themselves and an adult to accompany them. If you require a service dog to attend, please let us know and we’ll collaborate with you on how to keep you both comfortable and hydrated at this event.
GENERAL INFO
Location: Markham area, VA (Manahoac, Shawandasse Tula lands)
Parking: Must pay to enter this state park. There is ample parking space in designated parking lot.
Pets: While we love pets, we ask that furry friends who are not service animals remain at home for this adventure. Tell them we said hi!
Meet: December 20, 2025
Cost: The parking/entrance fee applies to all vehicles, so carpooling is encouraged. Park entrance/parking day pass fee is $10 per vehicle. Other than parking fees, this event is completely free to access! We welcome donations of any amount, which help us continue to provide these programs. We appreciate your support and your contribution!
Bring: Warm layers (e.g., jacket, fleece pants, winter hat, gloves, hand warmers), water, snacks, blanket or lawn chair. You’re encouraged to bring a red light if you have one, as white light will disrupt everyone's night vision.
COVID SAFETY
Masks are not required at this event. Please be mindful of your own and group safety. If you or anyone in your household are not feeling well, do not participate in this event.
-
Information for our land acknowledgment was gathered from nativeland.ca, which provides an estimate of original indigenous land occupation, but does not take into account migratory patterns or movement of the many surrounding communities. We recognize the historical complexity of indigenous movement across the land, and honor with gratitude the many, many surviving native nations whose land we benefit from in our work to diversify the outdoors.