Almaguin Star Party: A Dark Sky Experience in the Heart of Almaguin Highlands

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Almaguin Star Party: A Dark Sky Experience in the Heart of Almaguin Highlands

August 14th, 2026 by Megan Yemm

The Almaguin Highlands is one of Ontario’s premier destinations for dark sky experiences, and this fall, the Almaguin Star Party invites you to immerse yourself in a night of celestial wonder, community connection, and regional exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or simply curious about the night sky, this event is all about getting out and discovering the amazing businesses, beautiful landscapes, and incredible stargazing that make Almaguin such a special place.

Event Overview

Date: September 26th, 2026

Time: 5:30 PM – Midnight PM

Location: Screaming Heads, Burk’s Falls, Ontario

Your evening begins with Arrival & Check‑in at 5:30 PM. Explore the Screaming Heads property and visit their vendor booth. Followed at approximately 7:30 PM Indigenous Opening Ceremony led by Esther Willow who honors her Mi'kmaq heritage through a deep connection to the land and shares her knowledge of natural and cultural traditions.

As darkness falls, members of the North Bay Astronomy Club will be on site with a variety of telescopes, offering guided stargazing and sharing their knowledge of the night sky. Explore the Moon, planets, star clusters, nebulae, and distant galaxies while the North Bay Astronomy club members answer your questions.

The evening will also feature a live cello performance by Meghan Ballantyne, whose ambient, ethereal music will create an immersive soundtrack beneath the stars. Surrounded by the towering sculptures of Screaming Heads and one of Ontario's finest dark sky locations, you'll experience a unique blend of art, music, and astronomy.

Whether you're bringing binoculars, a telescope, a camera, or simply your curiosity, there's something for everyone to discover under the night sky.

For those interested in astrophotography, an optional Dark Sky Photography Workshop led by photographer Jim Shedden will be offered from 10:00–11:00 PM.(SOLD OUT) The workshop will cover the fundamentals of astrophotography and techniques for capturing sharp, detailed images of the night sky. Information about recommended camera equipment and what to bring is available on the ticket page.

The Almaguin Star Party welcomes everyone from first-time stargazers and families to seasoned astronomers and photographers. Come experience the magic of the night and discover why Almaguin is becoming one of Ontario's premier dark sky destinations.

What You’ll See Under Almaguin Skies

The Screaming Heads property offers exceptionally dark skies—far from urban light pollution and ideal for stargazing.

Depending on conditions, attendees may witness:

Explore Almaguin Before & After the Event

The Almaguin Star Party is more than a single evening, it’s an invitation to explore the region’s food, shops, attractions, and natural beauty. Show your event ticket at participating businesses to unlock exclusive Star Party perks.

Participating Businesses & Special Offers

Accommodations:

Brennan's Hill Camping & Cabins - 281 Brennans Hl Rd, South River, ON
Stay where the stars shine brightest and receive 10% off your stay at Brennan's Hill Camping & Cabins, an emerging Dark Sky destination in the Almaguin Highlands.

Trailhead Cabins - Sundridge, ON
Extend your Star Party adventure with a relaxing stay at Trailhead Cabins and enjoy $25 off accommodations exclusively for event attendees.

RuckHaven - Sundridge, ON
Experience something truly unique with a stay in the handcrafted Mongolian yurt — a cozy, circular retreat that blends rustic charm with modern comfort. Get 20% off stay in their yurt with proof of purchase.

Almaguin Hideaway Retreat Air BNB - 31 Maire Street, South River, ON
Tickets purchased prior to August 28th will automatically be entered for a free 2 night stay at Almaguin Hideaway Retreat, donated by Almaguin Psychotherapy.

Food & Beverage

Savour This – 204 Ontario Street, Burk's Falls, ON
Savour This Café in Burk’s Falls offers fresh, homemade baked goods and delicious treats, making it the perfect stop for a tasty bite while exploring Almaguin. Stop in to Savour This for a celestial cupcake during the weekend of the event!

Sips -80 Main St, Sundridge, ON
Sips Sundridge is a true local gem, pairing handcrafted drinks and tasty treats with a cozy, upbeat atmosphere and the kind of genuinely welcoming vibe that makes you want to stay awhile. Enjoy a cosmic‑inspired drink crafted just for the Star Party.

The Wanderer’s Outpost  - 11077 Hwy 124, South River, ON
The Wanderers Outpost is a food truck that newly opened this season. Serving up the best fresh cut fries, home made sauces and loaded fry creations, as well as soft-serve ice cream and dole whip. Show your event ticket and enjoy a complimentary soft serve ice cream.

South River Scoops 'N' More - 281 Highway 124, South River, ON
South River Scoops N More is a fun, family-friendly stop serving up sweet treats, cool scoops, and plenty of delicious favourites—the perfect place to indulge while exploring Almaguin. Get an on-theme starry ice cream sundae the weekend of the event!

Places to Shop:

Crystal Cave  - 11077 Hwy 124, South River, ON
Crystal Cave is a one-of-a-kind Almaguin Highlands destination where crystals, art, nature, and a touch of magic come together, inviting visitors to explore the shop, wander the enchanting gardens, and discover something unexpected around every corner. Receive 10% off your purchase when you show your ticket.

89 Main  - 89 Main Street, Sundridge, ON
89 Main is a charming local shop filled with thoughtfully curated finds, unique gifts, and beautiful treasures, offering a warm and inviting shopping experience in the heart of the village. Exclusive Star Party merchandise is available here only during the event weekend.

Experiences:

TerraVenture ATV Tours: - 521 Airport Rd, Sundridge, ON
TerraVenture ATV Tours is offering two exclusive deals for Star Party attendees, vendors, and volunteers — making it the perfect time to explore Almaguin’s backcountry trails before or after the event.

1. Star Party Special Ride — Saturday, September 26 Enjoy 20% off the 90‑minute Eagle Tour, with special departure times at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM. It’s a great way to add some adventure to your Star Party Saturday.

2. Weekend Discount — September 25–27 All Star Party participants, vendors, and volunteers can take advantage of a 15% discount on both the Eagle Tour (90 minutes) and the Bear Tour (3.5 hours) throughout the entire weekend, from Friday through Monday.

Call or Email to book!
705-388-8847
info@terraventureatvtoiurs.ca

Early Bird Bonus: Win a 2‑Night Stay in South River

Purchase your ticket before August 28th and be automatically entered to win a free 2‑night accommodation at a beautiful Airbnb in South River. Extend your star‑filled adventure with a cozy getaway in the heart of Almaguin.

Explore the region, enjoy local food and drink, and discover why Almaguin is quickly becoming a must‑visit destination for nature lovers and night sky seekers.

Event Timeline

What to Bring

Suggested items:

Night Sky Etiquette

To preserve the dark sky experience:

Why Dark Sky Tourism Matters

Dark sky tourism supports environmental stewardship, encourages outdoor recreation, and connects people with the natural world in a meaningful way. Almaguin Highlands is proud to offer one of Ontario’s most accessible and awe‑inspiring night sky experiences where thousands of stars become visible once the sun sets and the sky opens.

TICKETS SOLD OUT

Eventbrite link. 

Come for the stars. Stay for the adventure. Discover Almaguin.