Written BY: Sabrina Doyle

From October 14 to 23, the town of Jasper will sparkle with non-stop dark sky events. From symphonies under the stars to planetarium shows to astrophotography workshops, the Jasper Dark Sky Festival celebrates the art, science and culture surrounding the night sky.

Here’s some of the top must-do events to add to your schedule.

October 15 / 7:00 pm – 11:00 pm / $119

VENUE – Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Cozy up with a blanket and hot chocolate and witness the magic of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra Strings, amplified by the Rocky Mountains, under thousands of twinkling stars. Doors at 7:00 pm, concert at 8:00 pm.

October 22 / 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm / FREE

VENUE – Lake Annette

There is no better way to welcome the dark sky than to celebrate pahkisimon, Cree for sunset. This starts just before sunset with a ceremonial tipi raising followed by teachings, hand-drumming and song by Warrior Women, community pow wow drumming open for anyone to participate in. As the sun sets, illuminated Indigenous hoop, traditional and shawl dancers will help us welcome in the starry night. Once the celebration has wrapped up, feel free to stay at Lake Annette to enjoy some of the best star-gazing in the area or head back into the Jasper townsite to take in the evening programs around town.

October 22 / 8:45 pm – 9:00 pm / FREE

VENUE – Commemoration Park (1324 Pyramid Lake Rd)

Tourism Jasper presents a one-of-a-kind event in the night sky! Join us to witness an inspiring creation of drone choreography set to an original song titled “Cascade” arranged by our very own Dark Sky band, played live under the dark sky!

Most Saturdays in September, every Friday & Saturday in October / 5:45 pm – 10:30 pm / $154.36 +GST

VENUE – Jasper SkyTram, Whistlers Rd

Get even closer to the stars with this exclusive dining and stargazing experience atop the Jasper Skytram. Includes a 3-course mountain-top dinner, the most powerful telescopes in the Canadian Rockies, a special talk on Canada’s dark skies. Bring warm layers for the outdoor star gazing portions of the evening.

October 22, 23 / 8:00 am – 10:00 am or 11:00 am – 1:00 pm / $42.81

VENUE – Lobstick Lodge

Kickstart your morning with a healthy dose of awe by chatting with celestial celebrities over a hot buffet breakfast or brunch. On October 22 join Jonathan Ward (Bringing Columbia Home: The Untold Story of a Lost Space Shuttle and Her Crew) and later, Emma Louden (Defining the Third Phase of Space Exploration). On October 23, Torah Kachur (The Mysteries and Dangers of Light Pollution) and Patrick Pilarski  (Human-Machine Integration) will present.

Join an illustrious panel of experts for in-depth discussions about space exploration with scientist-astronaut candidate Dr. Shawn Pandya, CEO of Delalune Space Rob Meyerson, and more! These dynamic conversations are always a favourite of audiences. Other talks will include musical performances by Jay Ingram playful spaceflight experiences by Sarah Jane Pell, astrophotography tips and stories from Jeanine Holowatuik, and trivia nights with Alan Nursall, CEO of Telus World of Science-Edmonton