Fountain Hills Dark Sky Festival 2026

Events Beth Kohoutek February 18, 2026

Fountain Hills Dark Sky Festival 2026 – Discover the Night

If you’re looking for an evening of fun and educational events in Fountain Hills, mark your calendar for the annual Fountain Hills Dark Sky Festival! Hosted by Fountain Hills Dark Sky Preservation, this community celebration returns Saturday, March 28, from 4 to 9 p.m. at the Fountain Hills Community Center, 13001 N. La Montana Drive.

This year’s theme, Discover the Night, invites residents, visitors, astronomy lovers, and families to come together and explore the beauty and importance of preserving our natural night skies.

Event Highlights

Special Guest Speakers

Two distinguished experts will headline the festival, offering rare insights into space exploration and wildlife conservation.

Susan Kilrain – One of only three women to pilot a NASA Space Shuttle. With more than 7.7 million miles traveled in space and a decorated career as a Navy test pilot, Susan will share her extraordinary experiences and passion for science and discovery.
Tony Palmer – A wildlife biologist and Ambassador for the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. Tony works to protect Arizona’s firefly populations and the dark skies they depend on. His presentation will illuminate the connection between nocturnal wildlife and responsible sky preservation.

Student Art Competition

Celebrate local creativity! Winners of the annual student art contest will be announced during the festival. All artwork inspired by the night sky will be showcased inside the Community Center for attendees to enjoy.

Live Music – The Killer B’s

Enjoy an evening soundtrack provided by The Killer B’s, a local favorite acoustic duo performing throughout the festival.

Visitors to the Dark Sky Festival can view planets and stars through telescopes. (Independent Newsmedia/Fountain Hills Times)

Family-Friendly Activities

With hands-on exhibits, educational booths, kids’ activities, telescope zones, and interactive experiences, this free festival is designed for all ages to discover the magic of the night.

Why Dark Sky Preservation Matters

Fountain Hills is proud to be recognized as an International Dark Sky Community, and the Dark Sky Festival shines a spotlight on the importance of protecting our nocturnal environment. Light pollution affects ecosystems, wildlife, human health, and our ability to observe the stars. Events like this help educate and inspire the next generation of sky stewards.