Dark Sky Week

Join Bears Ears Partnership and partners for International Dark Sky Week, April 13-20! 

Dark Sky Week is an opportunity to learn about the cultural and ecological significance of dark skies, help us conserve this resource, connect with fellow dark sky enthusiasts, and experience the renowned dark skies for yourself.

 Since Bluff, Utah was designated an International Dark Sky Community in 2025, BEP has collaborated with local partners to maintain the designation through ongoing light pollution monitoring, and dark sky education throughout the Bears Ears region. 

There are plenty of ways to get involved in Dark Sky Week, whether or not you live in or near Bluff, and no matter your familiarity with astronomy. 

Tuesday, April 14

All are welcome to join Dark Sky Ambassador Training at 9:00pm at the Bluff Community Center. Learn to use (or practice using) a telescope, identify spring constellations, and conduct seasonal light monitoring. LEARN MORE

Thursday, April 16

• 7:00pm: "America's Astronomer" Dean Regas will virtually present "100 Things to See in the Night Sky" at the Canyon Country Discovery Center.
• 9:00pm: Star Party with Telescope Viewing at the Canyon Country Discovery Center (1117 N Main St, Monticello, UT 84535). MORE INFO

Friday, April 17

• 7:00pm: Dark Sky Trivia at Canyon Smokehouse rear deck (281 Main St, Bluff, UT 84512). Grab a bite to eat and challenge your friends and neighbors in an out-of-this-world dark sky-themed game of team trivia. Dress to be comfortable outdoors. 
• 9:00pm: Star Party at the Bluff Community Center (3rd East and Mulberry, Bluff Rd, Bluff, UT 84512) LEARN MORE

Conserve the dark sky wherever you are: Take the pledge to conserve the night sky on DarkSky International’s website.

PLUS, Cow Canyon Coffee is offering a limited edition specialty galaxy-themed beverage and constellation cupcakes, only available during Dark Sky Week. 

Learn more: 

• Read about Bluff’s path to its Dark Sky Community designation in this article by Education Director Sarah Burak.
• Read a reflection from Diné Dark Sky Ambassador Eirene Hamilton on page 16 of the 2026 Partnership Magazine.
• Listen to Education Director Sarah Burak talk about the dark sky program on the Rural Towns Podcast.

Looking for more dark sky opportunities? Save the date for our upcoming Star Parties: May 7 at Goosenecks State Park, June 11 at Bluff Community Center, and August 11 at Bluff Community Center. Stay tuned for more dates to be announced. 

Questions? Contact Education Director Sarah Burak at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.