Night Sky

Grand Canyon Star Party Returns to the South Rim June 6–13, 2026

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the night skies above the Grand Canyon through powerful telescopes, surrounded by some of the darkest skies in America, June is one of the best times to visit.

The 36th Annual Grand Canyon Star Party returns to the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park from June 6–13, 2026, bringing together amateur astronomers, park visitors, and astronomy enthusiasts from around the world for a week of free nighttime sky viewing and educational presentations.

Hosted by the National Park Service, Grand Canyon Conservancy, and the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association, the annual event transforms the South Rim into one of the most unique stargazing destinations in the Southwest.

What to Expect at the 2026 Grand Canyon Star Party

Throughout the week, dozens of volunteer astronomers will set up telescopes near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center, offering visitors incredible views of planets, double stars, star clusters, nebulae, distant galaxies, and more.

Weather permitting, guests can enjoy spectacular dark-sky conditions that make Grand Canyon National Park one of the premier stargazing locations in the United States.

During the daytime, visitors may also find solar telescopes pointed safely at the sun, offering another memorable way to experience astronomy at the Grand Canyon.

Nightly Programs and Telescope Viewing

Each evening at 8 p.m., special guest speakers will present astronomy-themed talks and slide shows at the Canyon Visitor Center Plaza.

After the presentations, free telescope viewing begins behind the visitor center and continues late into the night.

Visitors can also join popular green-laser constellation tours nightly at:

  • 9:00 p.m.
  • 9:30 p.m.
  • 10:00 p.m.

The best telescope viewing typically begins after 9 p.m., once the skies become fully dark.

Starstruck: Arizona Dark Sky Expedition Passport

The Arizona Office of Tourism launched this program which includes a digital guide connecting visitors to more than 30 amazing stargazing spots and certified Dark Sky communities in celebration of International Dark Sky Week.  Learn more about the Starstruck Arizona Dark Sky Passport here.

Important 2026 Update: North Rim Star Party Cancelled

Due to impacts from the Dragon Bravo Fire, the North Rim Star Party will not take place in 2026. All official Star Party activities this year will be held on the South Rim.

For travelers planning a summer Grand Canyon vacation, this makes the South Rim the primary destination for organized astronomy events inside the park.

Tips for Attending the Grand Canyon Star Party

If you plan to attend the Star Party, a little preparation can make the evening much more enjoyable.

  • Arrive early for the nightly speaker presentations, as seating can fill quickly.
  • Use the free Village Route shuttle bus when possible.
  • Parking is available in Lots 1 through 4 near the visitor center.
  • Bring a flashlight covered with red cellophane or use a red-light flashlight to preserve night vision.
  • White lights are not permitted in the telescope viewing area.
  • Bring a light jacket or layer, as temperatures can cool significantly after sunset.

The last Village Route shuttle bus leaves the Grand Canyon Visitor Center at 9:30 p.m.

Make a Full Evening of Your South Rim Visit

Many visitors combine an evening at the Star Party with dinner, shopping, or entertainment in nearby Tusayan before heading into the park after sunset.

Located just outside the South Rim entrance gates, the Grand Canyon Visitor Center IMAX is a convenient stop before an evening under the stars.

Visitors can experience the giant-screen film Grand Canyon: Rivers of Time, explore the Adventure Store, or grab a meal at Explorers Café before heading into the park for telescope viewing.

If you’re planning a South Rim visit during June, the Grand Canyon Star Party is a memorable way to experience the park after dark.

Learn More

For the latest schedules, speaker information, and event updates, visit the official National Park Service Star Party page:
Grand Canyon Star Party – National Park Service

Frequently Asked Questions About the Grand Canyon Star Party

The 2026 Grand Canyon Star Party takes place from Saturday, June 6 through Saturday, June 13, 2026, on the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park.

The South Rim Star Party events are held near the Grand Canyon Visitor Center Plaza, with telescope viewing taking place behind the visitor center.

Yes. Telescope viewing, constellation tours, and nightly astronomy presentations are free for park visitors. Standard Grand Canyon National Park entrance fees still apply.

Nightly speaker presentations begin at 8 p.m. Telescope viewing is best after 9 p.m. and continues into the night, weather permitting.

No. Due to impacts from the Dragon Bravo Fire, the North Rim Star Party will not take place in 2026. Official Star Party activities are scheduled for the South Rim.

Bring warm layers, comfortable walking shoes, and a red-light flashlight. White lights are not permitted in the telescope viewing area because they interfere with night vision.

Yes. The Grand Canyon Visitor Center IMAX in Tusayan is located just outside the South Rim entrance gates and is a convenient stop for the IMAX movie, food, gifts, and trip planning before heading into the park for the evening.