Explore the Stars at Cosmos in the Desert April 26

Stargazers, science buffs, and cosmic dreamers—get ready to launch into the wonders of the universe at Cosmos in the Desert, Northern Nevada’s annual Dark Skies Festival, on Saturday, April 26, from 8 p.m. to midnight at Lahontan State Recreation Area.

Hosted by the Nevada Division of State Parks and the Division of Outdoor Recreation, the evening promises hands-on astronomy, guided night adventures, and family-friendly fun—all set beneath some of the darkest and most dazzling skies in the Silver State.

The action unfolds at Beach 3 with a stellar lineup of activities:

• Telescope Viewing (8 p.m. to midnight) - Peer into the cosmos with help from the Astronomical Society of Nevada and the Western Nevada Astronomical Club.
• Astrophotography Demo (9:30 to 11 p.m.) - Learn to capture galaxies and constellations with Carson City Parks and Recreation.
• Night Kayak Tours (8–9 p.m. & 10–11 p.m.) - Paddle under the stars with guides from the Division of Outdoor Recreation.
• Nocturnal Wildlife Walks (Hourly from 8 to 11 p.m.) - Discover nighttime creatures with the Nevada Department of Wildlife.
• Night Sky Instruction (9–9:45 p.m. & 11–11:45 p.m.) - Dr. Thomas Herring of Western Nevada College offers tips for navigating the stars.

Festivalgoers are encouraged to wear bright, wacky glow gear and enter the Glow Stick Costume Contest for fun prizes. Think neon, sparkle, and anything that lights up—there’s no such thing as too many lights.
Extend the adventure with overnight camping. Dispersed camping is welcome throughout the park (except Beach 3, day-use, and boat launch areas). Nevada vehicles are $15 per night; out-of-state vehicles, $20.

During the day, explore Art in the Dark with the Division of Outdoor Recreation, the Save Starry Skies license plate program from Friends of Nevada Wilderness, and conservation efforts with the Walker Basin Conservancy. Chilaquiles and Friends will serve local bites, and Unearthly Freeze-Dried Obsessions offers cosmic candy. The Nevada State Parks booth will provide snacks, water, a red-light station, and a warming shelter.

Admission is $5 per vehicle for Nevada residents and $10 for out-of-state guests. Visit parks.nv.gov for more information.