There’s a Full Weekend, Family-friendly, Campground Star Party Popping up in September
The Alberta Star Party runs September 11 to 13 at A Stones Throw RV Campground in Milo, about two hours southeast of Calgary. Now in its 40th year, it's a camping weekend under some of the darkest skies in the province, run by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada's Calgary Centre. You don't need to know astronomy, or own a telescope, to go. Just grab a campsite, grab a ticket and pack up the kids for a memorable weekend under the stars.
There’s a full weekend of programming but your kids are going to like this one - Friday and Saturday night - there’s a scavenger hunt in the sky, 25 objects to track down from sunset to sunrise, with a chart and program so you actually know where to look. No telescope? Doesn't matter. Guided sessions mean total beginners can jump straight in, and if you've got binoculars or a scope at home, bring them along.
Tips for the Alberta Star Party
From Edmonton it's about four hours or more, so plan a full weekend trip!
You need your own vehicle. No public transit runs to the campground.
Guided sessions are set up for beginners. Bring binoculars or a scope if you have one.
After dark, all white light must be covered in red or switched off, including phones and tent lights. Pack red cellophane for your light sources!
Kids are welcome - the star party is family friendly!
What You Need to Know
When: September 11 to 13, 2026. Starts 6 p.m. Friday, ends 10:30 a.m. Sunday.
Where: A Stones Throw RV Campground, 212031 Township Rd. 192, Milo, AB.
Cost: Registration $25 single or $35 family (early bird), rising to $35 or $45 on site. Camping is a separate $45+ per night, paid to the campground. Tickets on Eventbrite.
