News Release

Black Canyon Curecanti AstroFest Returns Sept. 11-12

News Release Date: September 1, 2026

MONTROSE, Colo. – The National Park Service invites you to discover your local day and night skies at the 2026 Black Canyon Curecanti AstroFest. Minimal light pollution and expansive public lands result in wonderful clear days and dark night skies at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area and. Come celebrate the skies above at the annual astronomy festival.

Friday, Sept. 11, 2026

• Daytime Astronomy, 2–4 p.m.
• Junior Ranger Activities, 2–4 p.m.
• Telescope Viewing & Star Tours, 9–10:30 p.m.
• Location: South Rim Visitor Center, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Saturday, Sept. 12, 2025

• Junior Ranger Activities, 6:15–7:15 p.m.
• Evening Ranger Program, 7:30–8:30 p.m.
• Telescope Viewing & Star Tours, 8:30–10 p.m.
• Location: Elk Creek Amphitheater, Curecanti National Recreation Area

If you wish to camp for the AstroFest events, campsites may be available by reservation at www.recreation.gov.  

Events are free of charge; park entrance fees apply. All events are subject to change or cancellation due to the weather. Location changes or cancellations will be listed in the Alerts section of the park website and posted to the Black Canyon or Curecanti Facebook pages. Dress warmly for outdoor evening events and please bring a red flashlight or headlamp, not white, to preserve night vision. Park only in designated areas, never on vegetation.

Learn more about this year’s event at https://www.nps.gov/blca/planyourvisit/astrofest.htm

-NPS-

About the National Park Service.  Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.

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