Voyageurs Star Party 2024
August 9 - 10
Take in the wonder of an International Dark Sky Park at the fourth-annual Voyageurs Star Party!
Experience the beauty and wonder of the night sky at the Voyageurs Star Party, a series of free astronomy events taking place August 9 - 10 at Voyageurs National Park. This event is open to all ages and welcomes everyone, from amateur astronomers to first-time stargazers.
Join us to explore the cosmos and celebrate the importance of preserving our dark skies. Hosted by Voyageurs Conservancy, the National Park Service, and numerous partners, the Star Party offers a stellar opportunity to connect with our awe-inspiring universe. Come celebrate with us!
Friday, August 9 - Rainy Lake Visitor Center
Saturday, August 10 - Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center
Enjoy special speakers, Perseid meteor shower viewings, a film showing, telescope sessions, campfire s’mores, guided constellation tours, and more.
Star Party Program Schedule
Click the arrow to view the full schedule of Star Party events
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"Northern Nights Starry Skies" Film Showing
1:00-2:00 PM and 2:00-3:00PM
Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Indoor Theater
Enjoy a special showing of Northern Nights Starry Skies - a visually stunning celebration of our spectacular starry skies above the world’s largest designated Dark Sky sanctuary. Ojibwe, Dakota cultural astronomers and other experts share the wonders of the heavens.
After the showing, Todd Burlet, an accomplished engineer, scholar, delegate of Dark Sky International and President of Starry Skies North, will discuss the relationship between our unique location and the positive effect that minimizing light pollution can have.Canoemobile with Wilderness Inquiry
7:00 - 11:00 PM
Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Docks
In partnership with Voyageurs Conservancy and the National Park Service, Wilderness Inquiry is thrilled to bring Canoemobile to the Voyageurs National Park 2024 Star Party for two nights of canoeing on Voyageurs lakes in our 10-person canoes. This event is free for everyone to attend and no prior paddling experience is required. People of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities are encouraged to attend!S’mores & Stories
7:00 - 9:00 PM
Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Outside Firepit
Enjoy a family-friendly time around the campfire with free s’mores and reading children’s books about the stars.Nocturnal Animals of Voyageurs National Park
7:15 - 7:45 PM
Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Indoor Theater
For nocturnal animals, the envelope of darkness is just as natural as sunlit days are for us. In order to hunt, mate, or migrate, these species rely on the cyclic rhythms of light and dark. Come learn about the amazing adaptations that these nocturnal animals have developed in order to survive in pitch darkness. These nocturnal animals truly understand that half of the park is after dark!Singing with the Stars
7:30 - 8:30 PM
Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Back Patio
Join volunteers, park rangers, and Voyageurs Conservancy staff for a musical experience under the stars, covering space and night sky themed songs.Dancing with the Stars: The Motion of the Aurora Borealis!
7:45 - 8:15 PM
Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Outside Near Entrance
Join us for a fun, interactive and moving exploration of the Northern Lights! This family friendly program will answer questions like: What are the Northern Lights? How are they moving? How can I move like Aurora Borealis? How long has Aurora Borealis been Dancing with the Stars?Light Pollution Challenges and Solutions, and the Economic Opportunities of Astro-tourism
8:15 - 8:45 PM
Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Indoor Theater
Join Dark Sky Delegate and Starry Skies North chapter president Todd Burlet as he explores light pollution and the economic opportunities it creates for still-dark locales. Learn about the sources of light pollution, the impact it has on human health and wellness, as well as the health of our plants, animals, and waters. We’ll share simple things you can do as individuals, families, and communities to reduce light pollution while still enjoying quality outdoor lighting. Learn more about the economic opportunities of Astro-Tourism and how to tap into this growing market, including how to attract visitors during ‘shoulder’ seasons.How to Watch the Perseid Meteor Shower with Astro Bob
9:00 - 9:30 PM
Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Indoor TheaterIt's almost time for one of the year's richest and most enjoyable meteor showers. In this program we will learn where Perseids come from and when to see them best.
Stars Over Voyageurs Lakes- Nighttime Boat Cruise
9:30 - 11:00 PM
Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Boat LaunchView the stars aboard a tour boat in a dark-sky certified national park! The captain will navigate to a quiet spot on the lake to optimize dark sky viewing while a ranger helps visitors identify objects with the naked eye and talks about light pollution and what it means to be a dark sky certified park. NOTE: Must make reservations and pay at recreation.gov
Telescope Observing Session
9:30 - Midnight
Rainy Lake Visitor Center, Outside near FlagpoleOnce it's dark, enjoy telescope sessions and constellation tours under Voyageurs' star-studded skies. View Saturn and its beautiful set of rings through a telescope, enjoy constellation tours of the sky, and take in the wilderness above our heads. You'll even get the chance to view other galaxies through our new and powerful 18"-inch mirror Obsession Telescope.
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"Northern Nights Starry Skies" Film Showing
1:00-2:00 PM and 2:00-3:00PM
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, Indoor Theater
Enjoy a special showing of Northern Nights Starry Skies - a visually stunning celebration of our spectacular starry skies above the world’s largest designated Dark Sky sanctuary. Ojibwe, Dakota cultural astronomers and other experts share the wonders of the heavens.
After the showing, Todd Burlet, an accomplished engineer, scholar, delegate of Dark Sky International and President of Starry Skies North, will discuss the relationship between our unique location and the positive effect that minimizing light pollution can have.Canoemobile with Wilderness Inquiry
7:00 - 11:00 PM
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, Docks
In partnership with Voyageurs Conservancy and the National Park Service, Wilderness Inquiry is thrilled to bring Canoemobile to the Voyageurs National Park 2024 Star Party for two nights of canoeing on Voyageurs lakes in our 10-person canoes. This event is free for everyone to attend and no prior paddling experience is required. People of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities are encouraged to attend!S’mores & Stories
7:00 - 9:00 PM
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, Outside Firepit
Enjoy a family-friendly time around the campfire with free s’mores and reading children’s books about the stars.Nocturnal Animals of Voyageurs National Park
7:15 - 7:45 PM
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, Indoor Theater
For nocturnal animals, the envelope of darkness is just as natural as sunlit days are for us. In order to hunt, mate, or migrate, these species rely on the cyclic rhythms of light and dark. Come learn about the amazing adaptations that these nocturnal animals have developed in order to survive in pitch darkness. These nocturnal animals truly understand that half of the park is after dark!Singing with the Stars
7:30 - 8:30 PM
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, Near Firepit
Join volunteers, park rangers, and Voyageurs Conservancy staff for a musical experience under the stars, covering space and night sky themed songs.Dancing with the Stars: The Motion of the Aurora Borealis!
7:45 - 8:15 PM
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, Outside Near Entrance
Join us for a fun, interactive and moving exploration of the Northern Lights! This family friendly program will answer questions like: What are the Northern Lights? How are they moving? How can I move like Aurora Borealis? How long has Aurora Borealis been Dancing with the Stars?Light Pollution Challenges and Solutions, and the Economic Opportunities of Astro-tourism
8:15 - 8:45 PM
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, Indoor Theater
Join Dark Sky Delegate and Starry Skies North chapter president Todd Burlet as he explores light pollution and the economic opportunities it creates for still-dark locales. Learn about the sources of light pollution, the impact it has on human health and wellness, as well as the health of our plants, animals, and waters. We’ll share simple things you can do as individuals, families, and communities to reduce light pollution while still enjoying quality outdoor lighting. Learn more about the economic opportunities of Astro-Tourism and how to tap into this growing market, including how to attract visitors during ‘shoulder’ seasons.How to Watch the Perseid Meteor Shower with Astro Bob
9:00 - 9:30 PM
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, Indoor TheaterIt's almost time for one of the year's richest and most enjoyable meteor showers. In this program we will learn where Perseids come from and when to see them best.
Stars Over Voyageurs Lakes- Nighttime Boat Cruise
9:30 - 11:00 PM
Ash River Visitor Center, Boat LaunchView the stars aboard a tour boat in a dark-sky certified national park! The captain will navigate to a quiet spot on the lake to optimize dark sky viewing while a ranger helps visitors identify objects with the naked eye and talks about light pollution and what it means to be a dark sky certified park. NOTE: Must make reservations and pay at recreation.gov
Telescope Observing Session
9:30 - Midnight
Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center, Outside Grassy AreaOnce it's dark, enjoy telescope sessions and constellation tours under Voyageurs' star-studded skies. View Saturn and its beautiful set of rings through a telescope, enjoy constellation tours of the sky, and take in the wilderness above our heads. You'll even get the chance to view other galaxies through our new and powerful 18"-inch mirror Obsession Telescope.
Featured Programs
Dark Sky Ranger Programs
Enjoy a variety of family-friendly programs to learn about the northern lights, the solar system, the captivating stories behind constellations, and more. As part of the festivities, attendees can also enjoy a special screening of the film "Northern Nights, Starry Skies," a visually stunning celebration of our spectacular starry skies above the world’s largest designated Dark Sky sanctuary.
Paddle Under the Stars - Canoemobile
Wilderness Inquiry is thrilled to bring Canoemobile to the Voyageurs Star Party! Enjoy an evening paddle with Wilderness Inquiry in a 10-person canoe. No prior paddling experience is required. PFDs will be provided for all ages.
Friday, August 9, 7:00-11:00 PM @ Rainy Lake Visitor Center
Saturday, August 10, 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM @ Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center
How to Watch the Perseid Meteor Shower with “Astro” Bob King
Join amateur astronomer and planetarium educator “Astro” Bob King for an awe-inspiring presentation during one of the year's richest and most enjoyable meteor showers. In this program we will learn where Perseids come from and when to see them best. Learn about August’s celestial events and what makes Voyageurs National Park’s dark skies so spectacular.
Friday, August 9, 9:00 PM @ Rainy Lake Visitor Center
Saturday, August 10, 9:00 PM @ Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center
Telescope Sessions and Constellation Tours
Experience an unforgettable night of stargazing. Join a team of rangers and volunteer astronomers as you peer through telescopes, taking in the stunning features of the night sky. From the distant galaxies to the rings of Saturn, you'll explore celestial wonders like never before. Additionally, embark on a constellation tour, where expert guides will share the fascinating stories behind the patterns in the sky
Friday, August 9, 10:00 PM - Midnight @ Rainy Lake Visitor Center
Saturday, August 10, 10:00 PM - Midnight @ Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center
Things to Know about the 2024 Star Party
Click here to download a helpful Things to Know Before You Join Us PDF
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The Voyageurs Star Party is FREE and open to all. There is no entrance fee to Voyageurs National Park and no pre-registration for the Star Party is required. The Star Party has both daytime and night-time programs you can attend. The dark sky viewing elements of the program begin at 9 PM, for best viewing of the night sky (sunset for mid-August at Voyageurs National Park is approximately at 8:30 PM, but astronomical twilight is around 10:00 PM).
This late night event ends at midnight when telescopes are taken down. However, on nights with clear, calm skies, you are welcome to stay beyond the official program. Please note that National Park Service and Voyageurs Conservancy Staff will leave the site after the event and you will be responsible for your safety while in the park.Planning! What to bring and wear to the Star Party
Dress in layers. Temperatures drop quickly after sunset—even during summer months.
Bring a chair or blanket for night sky viewing. No seating is provided.
Parking is very limited at the visitor centers. Carpool if you can and give yourself extra time to find a spot or be prepared to walk from overflow areas.
Bug spray is highly recommended, as mosquitoes are very active in the park around sun-down.
Please plan to eat dinner before the event - support a local business! If you’d like to eat dinner at the park, bring a picnic dinner or order a to-go meal from one of the area resorts. There will not be food or beverages available on-site for purchase.
Please plan to pack out any trash with you.
Restrooms will be available at the visitor centers during the Star Party event.
Leave yourself extra time to park and carpool if you can. Parking is limited and you may have to wait in line or be prepared to walk from overflow parking areas
Light Etiquette - Darkness is our friend!
During night-time programs do not use cell phone lights, flash photography, or any white flashlights. We ask that no white light flashlights be used due to their negative effect on night vision. After using a white light, it can take well over thirty minutes for your eyes to begin to readjust to the profound darkness of Voyageurs
Instead, bring a red flashlight! You can make a red flashlight by:
Covering any flashlight with red cellophane, a limited supply of cellophane and rubber bands are available at the welcome tent OR Painting the flashlight lens with red nail polish or a red magic marker.For more on why red flashlights are helpful, and how the human eye works after dark, click here.
Please follow the wayfinding paths marked with our red lights and red rope lights. These red posts will also mark uneven depressions on the ground, as well as the water’s edge.
Enjoying the wilderness above our heads
The moon will be in its Waxing Crescent phase with 4% to a 31% illumination (less moonlight), night sky viewing includes the Milky Way, Pleiades, other constellations, planets (including Jupiter and Saturn) and depending on solar storm activity, the Northern Lights.
One question we get asked a lot is how to take photos of the night sky from a cellphone like an iphone. Download a Night Sky app and set your phone to a long exposure to capture the Northern Lights and other celestial objects.
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Please arrange your lodging accommodations early! Camping on-site at the event is not permitted. It is a 45-minute drive between International Falls and Kabetogama, partly on an unlit two-way highway in a remote area at night.
International Falls
International Falls, Rainy Lake and Ranier Convention and Visitors Bureau
Explore MN - International Falls, Rainy Lake, Rainier
Reserving a campsite in Voyageurs National Park
Please note: All front and backcountry campsites within Voyageurs National Park are only accessible by boat (keep in mind returning to your campsite safely on the water at night).
Kabetogama
Kabetogama Lakes Resorts and Lodging
Camping at Woodenfrog (just outside Voyageurs and administered by the Minnesota DNR, and in close proximity to the Kabetogama Lake Visitor Center).
Reserving a campsite in Voyageurs National Park
Accommodations in the nearby Ash River area
Please note: All front and backcountry campsites within Voyageurs National Park are only accessible by boat (keep in mind returning to your campsite safely on the water at night). -
By car: Voyageurs National Park is approximately a 4 ½ hour drive (295 miles) from the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area and a 2 ½ hour drive from Duluth (130 miles).
By plane: Fly to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP), rent a car and drive to Voyageurs National Park OR fly directly to International Falls Airport (INL) and rent a car in International Falls.
Your first visit to Voyageurs? Be sure to check out additional considerations when visiting Voyageurs National Park -
In the event that inclement weather requires canceling outdoor events, we will post an update to voyageurs.org/starparty no later than 5:00 PM the day of the event.
In the event of mild weather disruptions or cloudy weather, some programs will be adapted, moved indoors, or continue as is. Even if we can’t see the stars together, we promise to do our best to share stories and science with you!
Remember that weather can shift rapidly in this area of the country and can vary on one end of the park or lake vs. another.
Local weather for Kabetogama VC
Local weather for Rainy Lake VC
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If you require accommodations at a Voyageurs Conservancy program, like sign language interpretation, please contact us right away so we can do our best to make arrangements: 612-333-5424; contact@voyageurs.org.
The National Park Service is committed to all practicable efforts for making its facilities, programs, services, information, employment, and meaningful work opportunities accessible to all people. Contact the park directly for accommodations at 218-283-6600.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Interested in partnering or sponsoring the 2024 Voyageurs Star Party? Sponsor partners play a critical role in the event’s success and are provided exposure and promotional benefits.
Please contact Christina Hausman Rhode at chausman@voyageurs.org or call 612-333-5424 for more information.
We’d love to explore how sponsorship can enhance your corporate citizenship and visibility. Thank you for supporting dark sky preservation and our national parks!
Star Party Partners:
Backus Community Center
International Falls Library
In December 2020, Voyageurs National Park became officially certified as an International Dark Sky Park. This certification from the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) recognizes Voyageurs for the exceptional quality of its dark skies and its ongoing commitment to preserving darkness and educating the public about the night sky. Voyageurs Conservancy, the official nonprofit partner of Voyageurs National Park, was proud to help secure this certification by funding key light fixture changes and hosting night sky educational programs.
You can support the Voyageurs Star Party and Dark Sky Classroom with a donation at voyageurs.org/give. Sign up to receive future emails from Voyageurs Conservancy at voyageurs.org/subscribe.