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Dark Sky Discovery Days

Waterton's Inaugural Dark Sky Festival

Welcome to Dark Sky Discovery Days
Exploring the Aurora Borealis | September 26–29, 2025
Waterton Lakes National Park

Join us for the first-ever Dark Sky Discovery Days, a three-day festival celebrating the beauty, mystery, and wonder of the night sky in Waterton Lakes National Park.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains, this community-based event blends science, storytelling, and stargazing — all inspired by the natural magic of the Aurora Borealis.

2025 Theme: Exploring the Aurora Borealis
This year’s festival theme is all about curiosity and connection. While we can't promise a glimpse of the Northern Lights, we’ll explore their beauty through art, science, culture, and imagination. From fascinating presentations to Indigenous sky stories, we’ll journey into the heart of what makes the aurora so captivating—even when unseen.

Celebrate Waterton After Dark
Waterton Lakes National Park is a designated Dark Sky Park—one of the rare places in the world where stars shine brilliantly overhead. Dark Sky Discovery Days invites you to slow down, look up, and rediscover the magic of the night, surrounded by natural beauty and community spirit.

Meet the Festival Presenters, Performers and Subject Matter Experts Now!

Dark Sky Discovery Days

Over the course of the approximately 3 days that the event will run in its inaugural year, Dark Sky Discovery Days will feature a series of informational, educational, and entertaining experiences that attendees will be able to participate in. A key point of all of the experiential sessions that will be offered is that they will enable festival attendees to participate in sessions that will be held concurrently throughout WLNP, which will ultimately develop and enhance attendees’ personal connect with the night sky.

Register

Fesitival Details
September 26–29, 2025 | Waterton Lakes National Park

Be part of the first-ever Dark Sky Discovery Days, a one-of-a-kind weekend celebrating the wonders of the night sky through storytelling, science, culture, and community.

Admission Prices:
General $7.50 CAD
Child $5.00 CAD
Family (2 adults, 2 children) $20.00 CAD
plus taxes and fees

With your general admission, you’ll receive:

  • Welcome info kit
  • Discovery Day wristbands(s)
  • Entry to the Star Party Welcome Event
  • Access to self-directed activities
  • Admission to the Bat Exhibit & Family Zone
  • Local discounts and offers from Waterton businesses
  • And more!!!

Note: Workshops and specialized experiences are available for an additional fee.

The stars are calling, spots are limited — don’t miss this unforgettable weekend under the stars.