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U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Parks After Dark Programs
The Parks After Dark Science Program Series are guided educational experiences that will introduce participants to the value of the night sky, natural darkness, and the importance of nocturnal species in our environment.
For many years, light pollution has been increasing worldwide and continues to grow rapidly. The lightening of our night skies affects a wide range of natural resources, including nocturnal species at Valley Forge National Historical Park and Hopewell Furnace National Historic Site.
During Parks After Dark events, attendees will gain first-hand experience in natural resource management by participating in citizen science and inventorying target nocturnal species. Events will take place throughout the year and highlight different nocturnal species, ensuring that each event is a unique, educational experience. Registration is required for most events.
Learn How to Register Below
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Topics, Details, and Dates
While no two Parks After Dark programs will be exactly the same, there is a common goal among the series: get citizens involved with science in national parks and raise awareness for important nocturnal species! Additionally, participants will be able to learn some basics of species identification and help expand upon current species inventories.
These programs are suitable for all ages, but are most appropriate for adults, older children, and teenagers. Participants are kindly asked to bring flashlights or lanterns, water, and layers. Long pants and closed-toed shoes are required.
June 3 — Bat Night 7:30 - 9:30 PM
Do you like chocolate or a nice cup of coffee? What about avocados or almonds? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you have bats to thank! Globally, bats support many ecosystem services through pest consumption, plant pollination, and seed dispersal. Although there are more than 1,400 species worldwide, only a handful of species can be found at Valley Forge National Historical Park. Join park staff as they demonstrate a stationary acoustic survey and talk a bit about bats and ways that you can help support populations. Registration is required for this event and space is limited.
June 10 — Fireflies at Valley Forge 7:30 - 9:30 PM
Although fireflies may seem limitless as they light up the night sky in the summer, several species are facing population decline across the country. This event will be focused on collecting data for Firefly Atlas. This citizen science project was launched in 2022 by scientists hoping to better understand species diversity and distribution in the United States and work towards identifying specific threats to targeted firefly species. Registration is required for this event and space is limited.
June 24 — Fireflies at Hopewell Furnace 7:30 - 9:30 PM
Although fireflies may seem limitless as they light up the night sky in the summer, several species are facing population decline across the country. This event will be focused on collecting data for Firefly Atlas. This citizen science project was launched in 2022 by scientists hoping to better understand species diversity and distribution in the United States and work towards identifying specific threats to targeted firefly species. Registration is required for this event and space is limited.
July 22 — National Moth Week Celebration at Valley Forge 8:00 -10:00 PM
Are you looking for something to do because you have "mothing" planned on a Saturday night? Join park staff for a National Moth Week celebration and learn about the life cycles, habitats and benefits of moths! "Moth-ers" of all ages and abilities are welcome. This is a drop-in event, so feel free to stay a few minutes or a few hours! The event will promptly end at 10:00 pm. Registration is not required.
July 29 — National Moth Week Celebration at Hopewell Furnace 7:30 - 9:30 PM
Are you looking for something to do because you have "mothing" planned on a Saturday night? Join park staff and an insect expert for a National Moth Week celebration and learn about the life cycles, habitats and benefits of moths! "Moth-ers" of all ages and abilities are welcome. Registration is required for this event and space is limited.
August 12 — Nocturnal Hike at Valley Forge 7:00 - 9:00 PM
Have you ever wanted to go on a night hike but didn't know where to start? Then join park staff as we talk a walk in the park after dark, talk about light pollution, and how nocturnal animals have adapted to thrive in darkness. This will be an easy to moderate hike and is best suited for individuals who have some prior hiking experience. Click here for more information on the trails at Valley Forge. Registration is required for this event and space is limited.
November 4 — Owl Prowl at Hopewell Furnace. 5:00 - 7:00 PM
Join park staff for a hike through owl habitat! Learn some fun facts about owls in the area, their role in the ecosystem, and with a bit of luck- see a feathered friend! We hope this hike will be a hoot! Registration is required for this event and space is limited.
Registration Information
Advanced registration for Parks After Dark is required and space is limited for most events. To register, please call the natural resource management intern and seasonal office at 610-783-1041. You will be asked to provide an email and phone number. If you leave a voicemail, please include your name and a callback number. Specific location information will be provided after registration.
If you have any questions about events, please call 610-783-1041 or Email us!