South of Scotland Dark Sky Festival

Head to one of the darkest places in Europe this autumn and discover the beauty of truly dark skies.

The South of Scotland takes pride in its low levels of light pollution - it is one of the few places where you can experience true, natural darkness. From stunning nighttime displays in designated Dark Sky Parks like the Galloway Forest Park, where you can see some 7,000 stars with the naked eye, to displays of bioluminescence in our forests, there is much to discover when darkness falls. And there's just as many ways to celebrate this spectacle as there are stars in the sky.

Join us for the inaugural South of Scotland Dark Sky Festival. Immerse yourself by exploring designated dark sky places and communities, discover how locals take inspiration form and safeguard the local dark skies, and support the endeavours to protect our dark spaces for future generations.

Throughout the South of Scotland, a wide variety of events invite you to connect with the natural environment and all that our dark skies offer:
- Head out for guided stargazing sessions
- Learn astro-photography and capture the night sky like a pro
- Reconnect and slow down with nighttime wild swims and walks
- Savour food and drink inspired by the region's dark skies
- Discover art and create your own with local makers
- Enjoy outdoor storytelling sessions