The Palm Beach County departments of Environmental Resources Management and Parks & Recreation will “celebrate the night and turn down the lights” by hosting the third annual Dark Sky Festival at the Okeeheelee Nature Center on Saturday, Feb. 21 from 6 to 10 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

The purpose of the Dark Sky Festival is to expose citizens to the marvels of astronomy and the importance of protecting dark skies, not just for astronomy purposes, but also for the effects on human health, and the value that darkness provides to area wildlife. This festival will include stargazing with local astronomers, exhibits, vendors, nature walks, a children’s activity area, food trucks, a campfire and more. Additional support for this event is provided by the International Dark Sky Association-South Florida.

The Okeeheelee Nature Center is located in Okeeheelee Park at 7715 Forest Hill Blvd., one mile west of Jog Road. For more information, e-mail Jacey Biery at jbiery@pbcgov.org or visit www.pbcgov.com/erm/darkskyfest.