No matter where you look in Jasper National Park, you’re bound to find awe-inspiring scenes of natural beauty. Though each fall, all eyes are set on the skies — and for good reason.
The Jasper Dark Sky Festival — happening October 17 to 26, 2025 — invites visitors, experts and locals alike to bask in and celebrate the park’s spectacular skyscapes. The annual festival takes place each fall, blending elements of adventure, astronomy, science and solitude in the pristine conditions of the national park.
Jasper’s low light pollution makes for outstanding stargazing, earning the park a designation as a Dark Sky Preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in 2011. At over 11,000 square kilometres, Jasper is the second largest Dark Sky Preserve in the world (behind only Wood Buffalo National Park), meaning there’s no shortage of Canadian Rockies wonders to explore during the day or under the sprawling stars.
Here are six of the things that have us counting down the nights until the Jasper Dark Sky Festival.
With the darkness of winter knocking but the warmth of fall lingering, October is the perfect time of year to be outside at night. During the summer, the sun sets very late. During winter, it can be really cold. But the middle ground of autumn evenings gives everyone a chance to throw on an extra layer, sip a favourite warm drink and embrace the beauty of the night sky.
Jasper stargazing can largely be done outside and with the naked eye, though the festival also hosts events at the Jasper Planetarium. There, the most powerful telescope in the Rockies brings sky-high sights down to earth through guided tours, and dome theatre shows help put the cosmos into context.
Astronomers of every level and walk of life gather in Jasper for the Dark Sky Festival. From leading scientists, writers and photographers to astronauts, space medicine doctors and industry pros from the likes of Space Copy and Mission Control, the festival plays host to an array of fascinating speakers and presenters. Be sure to plan ahead, build a personal itinerary and book tickets in advance to make sure you don’t miss your must-see events.
Your vision isn't the only sense that'll be dazzled. Jasper's best restaurants also take part in the dark sky fun. Whether you're sticking around downtown for the “More Than Martians” brunch with Dr. Tanya Harrison at Terra or following the “Milky Way Espresso Martini Trail” to Aalto, Hearthstone and Silverwater Grill & Lounge, you'll find space-themed menus and drinks worth raising skyward throughout the festival.
When it comes to dark sky dining, one reservation (literally) rises above the rest. Star Sessions at the Jasper SkyTram transports guests up Whistlers Mountain for an elevated dinner in the high-alpine. Afterwards, you'll join a Jasper Planetarium guide for a telescope tour on the mountaintop, exploring planets, constellations and more of the final frontier. (Non-dining tickets are available, too.)
When the sun sets, the excitement is just beginning. This year, settle in for a free double-feature at Commemoration Park on Saturday, October 18, showing Elio at 4 p.m. and Interstellar at 8 p.m. And catch chart-topping alt-artist Talk at the park on Saturday, October 25. Remember to bring a camping chair and a cozy blanket (or be ready to dance) to stay warm as you enjoy some out-of-this-world entertainment.
Capturing the wonders of the night sky is no small task. That's why the Jasper Dark Sky Festival hosts workshops every year to help amateur photographers focus on getting the perfect night-sky shot.
Whether you're looking to hone your sunrise skills or savour the scene of a sprawling night sky, experts in astrophotography can help you master the craft. Plus, many of the workshops include cocktails, food stations and other extras as you learn lasting skills to up your photo-game.
Many Jasper hotels have budget-friendly offers available throughout the Dark Sky Festival. The Crimson is a funky and modern hotel popular with adventurers while the Forest Park Hotel has a spa so you can contemplate the universe while treating yourself.
Beyond the Dark Sky Festival, there are plenty of other highlights in Jasper through mid-October. See you beneath the stars in Jasper!
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