Start: Saturday, June 20, 2026 - 10:00 pm
End: Saturday, June 20, 2026 - 12:30 am
End: Saturday, June 20, 2026 - 12:30 am
Categories:
Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park
Experience the magic of the night sky at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park’s Star Parties! Join us at Cavalry Square / Parade Ground from 10:00 PM to 12:30 AM for an unforgettable stargazing adventure. Arrive early to claim a great observation spot—sunset is at 9:40 PM, so you can watch the sky transform before darkness fully sets in.
All ages welcome! Park staff and members of the Bismarck Astronomy Club will guide you through using telescopes, spotting constellations, identifying planets, and even exploring the craters of the moon. Telescopes and binoculars will be available, but feel free to bring your own!
Helpful tip: If you have a red-light flashlight, bring it along—it helps preserve night vision for better stargazing. Regular flashlights are welcome but should be kept on low beam.
But wait, there's more! Before the stars come out, the park will host a special guest speaker! Patrick Sommer with Starry Skies North & DarkSky International will be presenting a talk titled, "Discovering the Night: Finding Darkness in North Dakota." This presentation will take place starting at 8:30 PM inside the Commissary building.
Patrick will explore the growing issue of light pollution and what we lose when darkness disappears—from breathtaking views of the stars above to the nocturnal wildlife, plant life, and natural rhythms that depend on the night. He will also discuss the surprising connections between darkness, sleep quality, and human health, offering insights for adults and families alike.
Each Lights Out - Stars Out event in 2026 is scheduled for: Saturday, June 20th, Saturday, July 18th, and Thursday, August 27th.
Bathrooms will be available for use in the Commissary building adjacent from the parade ground.
*Schedule is subject to change. The event is free of charge and open to the public. An annual or daily vehicle permit is required for park entrance and can be purchased online or at the park.