The City of Dripping Springs, the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) Texas, and the Hays County Chapter of Texas Master Naturalist will host the 2nd Annual Texas Night Sky Festival on Saturday, March 18, 2017. The event runs from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. and is hosted at Dripping Springs Ranch Park. This celebration of the Texas Night sky is free and open to the public.

The festival aims to increase the appreciation of the night sky. The International Dark Sky Association works to fight light pollution by increasing awareness about the type of lighting that provides necessary light while reducing glare, saving energy and money, and eliminating light pollution. These types of lights protect the health and safety of living things while saving our view of the night sky.

Even in the country, far removed from city lights, light pollution can pose a problem for astronomers.

There will be fun citizen science activities, as well as engaging speakers and exhibits. Guests will be able to see examples of good lighting for their home or business. School projects and competition entries focused on protecting the night sky will be on display. There will be plenty of great food available from the food trucks and you can even take home a book or work of art inspired by the night sky, earn a related scouting badge, or simply come out to explore the stars.

Here is a view of the night sky, completely with no light pollution, from the Texas Big Bend.

Exhibitors and vendors will be in attendance to share demonstrations and displays related to the night sky and how to protect it. Save the date to join us for a fun family event! If you have any questions, please call (512) 858-4725.

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Texas Night Sky Festival