Things You Should Do: Central Virginia Star Party

Are you an aspiring astronomer? Are you and/or the kiddos curious about what's going on in that big night sky? Would you just like to spend an evening under the stars sipping on local cider? If you fall into any of these categories, I can't recommend the Central Virginia Star Party enough. The Star Party is held each year at Albemarle Ciderworks. Admission is free, and the event is organized by Dark Skies, Bright Kids, which is a program run by the UVa Astronomy Department with the goal of exposing rural kids to astronomy and other science education. The DSBK volunteers set up heavy-duty telescopes and even bring in a planetarium, and once darkness falls, kids can line up to see constellations and learn about planets. Pack a picnic dinner, or get something from an on-site food truck. Cider is available for purchase. This is one of my favorite events because it is just...chill. You can spend as much or as little money as you want, relax under a beautiful night sky, and watch kids experience the wonder of space (and maybe even learn something yourself). The link to the most recent event page is here. Keep an eye out for this one next year!

Bonus points if your child is the one who shouts "Uranus!" when asked which planet is their favorite.