Discover the Wonders of the Night Sky

Posted on 12 Sep 2024

Dark Sky Festival Returns to Bannau Brycheiniog National Park for 3rd year running.

Bannau Brycheiniog National Park is excited to announce its 3rd Annual Dark Skies Festival on Saturday 21st September 2024 at the National Park Visitor Centre in Libanus. This year’s festival promises a captivating line up of celestial events, perfect for all ages.

Festival-goers can look forward to Solar Gazing sessions, offering a unique chance to safely observe our nearest star. As dusk falls, Star Gazing will take centre stage, allowing attendees to explore the wonders of the night sky through powerful telescopes.

For those who prefer a more narrative experience, Starry Telling sessions will bring the myths and legends of the stars to life. Sessions in the outdoor Planetarium will provide, immersive, educational shows, suitable for all the family.

We are so excited to be organising our 3rd annual Dark Sky Festival in Bannau Brycheiniog National Park,” said Carol Williams, Sustainable Tourism Officer. “This event not only highlights our commitment to preserving the beauty of the night sky but also provides an educational and awe-inspiring experience for all ages.”

Join us at the National Park Visitor Centre in Libanus for a day and night filled with wonder, learning, and appreciation for our night sky. For more information and to book your tickets, please visit breconbeacons.org/stargazing

Highlights of the festival include:

All Day Events – Free

10am – 4pm Free Solar gazing with Cardiff and Bridgend Astronomical Society,
Hedgehog Helpline, The Uskelele Band, Carmarthen Cameras and MSG-Meteorites.

Myths and Legends of the Night Sky – £7

12pm / 3pm

Learn how to recognise constellations and the stories and legends behind them.

Journey Around the Solar System – £7

1pm / 4pm

Land on the surface of Venus and chase the moons of mighty Jupiter in this 360°planetarium show.

Hoaxes, Myths & Legends – £5

3.30pm

Join Phill Wallace (Cardiff Astronomical Society) for a discussion on conspiracy theories – where they come from, why they persist and why they are dangerous.

Starrytelling –  £15

7pm

Award-winning storyteller and writer Daniel Morden returns to tell timeless and magical traditional stories of the sun, moon and stars.

Visitors are encouraged to bring warm clothing and a sense of wonder as they gather under the National Park’s star-studded canopy. The Dark Sky Festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of nature’s most mesmerising light show. The Bannau Brycheiniog Dark Sky Festival takes place on Saturday 21st September, and is open to all. For more information, including event details and ticketing information, please visit breconbeacons.org/stargazing