Look Up, Arizona: Three Star Parties This Saturday
Looking for something a little different to do this weekend? Arizona has evening plans that come with telescopes and a much bigger view.
Three state parks are hosting star parties on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Pick your destination and spend some time getting to know the skies above us.
Homolovi State Park — near Winslow
6–8:30 p.m.
The evening begins with “How to Land a Rover on Mars,” presented by David Mayer of the USGS Astrogeology Science Center. Afterward, visitors can look through the Winslow Homolovi Observatory’s telescope. The program is included with paid park entry. HOMOLOVI DETAILS
Cattail Cove State Park — Lake Havasu area
Starts at 6:30 p.m.
Members of the Havasu Astronomy Club will bring telescopes for an evening of stargazing in the park’s boat parking lot. Bring a chair; the park is even offering free hot chocolate. The event is included with paid park entry. CATTAIL COVE DETAILS
Picacho Peak State Park — between Phoenix and Tucson
Starts at 7:30 p.m.
Join the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association for telescope viewing beneath the desert sky. This is a convenient option for an evening outing from either city. PICACHO PEAK DETAILS
Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and check your chosen park’s latest event information and entry fees before leaving. Telescope viewing depends on the weather.
Go Beyond the Cactus. There’s plenty to discover above it, too.