Celebrating the fifth North York Moors Dark Skies Fringe Festival


Celebrating the fifth North York Moors Dark Skies Fringe Festival: from 25 October – 3 November 2024

The North York Moors Dark Skies Fringe Festival is back for 2024, and it's set to be more magical than ever! From 25 October to 3 November 2024, you’ll have the chance to experience the incredible beauty of our dark skies through a wide range of exciting events and activities for all ages. Whether you’re an avid stargazer, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply curious about the wonders of the universe above, we want you to join us to marvel at the millions of stars that lie above the National Park.

The North York Moors National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best spots in the UK for stargazing.

Milky Way above Hawnby Hill Credit Steve BellMilky Way above Young Ralph's Cross


What’s on?

Our 2024 line up offers a mix of hands-on workshops, guided night walks, and astronomical activities, all designed to celebrate the beauty of the night sky and the surrounding natural environment. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the festival’s exciting events:

Join Large Outdoors to explore the National Park at dark, take a stroll under the stars with Walk Yorkshire, stargaze at the wonders above with AstroDog or Richard Darn, listen to the land around at night with Ryevitalise, explore the Park after Dark at Danby Lodge, discover the nature of the night at the National Centre for Birds of Prey and so much more.

Midnight walk with Adventures for the Soul and AFS Mountaineering


Why attend?

Our Dark Skies Fringe Festival offers a rare chance to step away from the distractions of modern life and reconnect with the natural world in a National Park. With events for everyone; families, beginners, photographers, and experts alike, the festival provides an opportunity to celebrate the night sky in all its glory. Whether you come for stargazing, workshops, or outdoor adventures, you’re sure to leave the festival feeling inspired, educated and connected to the cosmos.

Two people stargazing Credit Polly BaldwinDark skies over the Bank Top Kilns by Tom Mutton


Plan your visit

Be sure to check our Dark Skies National Parks website for the full schedule of events and booking details. Plus, you can extend your stargazing experience by staying with one of our Dark Skies Friendly accommodation providers in the heart of the North York Moors!

Let’s celebrate our dark skies together, join us to connect with the cosmos!

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