A stellar line up for the North York Moors Dark Skies Fringe Festival 2026: 23 October to 1 November
Taking place during the October half-term holiday, this year's Dark Skies Fringe Festival features a stellar programme of events designed to help people embrace the darkness rather than fear it. Through wellbeing experiences, community events and guided activities across the National Park and surrounding areas, visitors can connect with nature after dark and discover a new appreciation for the night sky.
From stargazing sessions and guided night walks to inspiring dark skies talks and Halloween-themed activities, there's something for the whole family to enjoy.
The North York Moors National Park is an International Dark Sky Reserve, making it one of the best places in the UK to experience truly dark skies and exceptional stargazing.
What’s on across the North York Moors?
Our 2026 programme brings together wellbeing experiences, guided night walks and astronomy events, all designed to celebrate the beauty of the night sky and the natural world after dark.
Visit the new Dark Skies Station at Danby Lodge for stargazing sessions with Astro Dog and Cosmic Wonders, or take part in family-friendly activities, including dark skies storytelling.
At Sutton Bank, enjoy special night sky events with Richard Darn, compete in a dark skies gravel bike ride, or try your hand at dusking, a Dutch-inspired wellbeing ritual that marks the transition between day and night. It's the perfect opportunity to slow down, switch off and embrace the evening.
Yorkie Talkies Outdoors will also be hosting community dark skies walks in Helmsley, including a Halloween dress-up event, as well as a friendly evening walk in York.
See the full list of events on the Dark Skies Fringe Festival website.
Why attend the Dark Skies Fringe Festival?
The North York Moors Dark Skies Fringe Festival offers a chance to reconnect with nature at night in one of the UK's most celebrated dark sky destinations.
Step away from the distractions of everyday life and experience the National Park after dark. Events are organised by professional astronomers, trained dark skies walkers and wellbeing practitioners. Spend an evening learning about the night sky, enjoy time outdoors with the family, boost your confidence or try something new, the festival offers experiences for beginners, adventurers and seasoned stargazers alike.
Plan your visit
Visit the Dark Skies National Parks website for the full event programme and booking details.
Why not make a night of it? Extend your stargazing experience by staying with one of our Dark Skies Friendly accommodation providers in the heart of the North York Moors. This year, special stargazing packages are available from Saltmoore, West Cawthorne and Incline View Holidays.