Something as simple as shutting off the lights can make a significant impact on the environment.

Friday, environmental activists and the public met at Main Street Square for the annual Rapid City Dark Sky Festival.

Craig Howe was the event's guest speaker and held a presentation on the Lakota Culture and the night sky.

Folks could also chat with astronomers, view some night time creatures, and hear from representatives from Badlands National Park to hear just why a dark sky is so important.

Diane Knutson, International Dark Sky Association board member says, "You can call the city and request them to turn down or turn off the lights. You can talk to businesses and ask them to be night sky friendly. you can even turn off your own porch lights to help with night sky preservation."

This event was held in conjunction with National Dark Sky week and also to kick off Earth Day this weekend.