No stage. No judges. Just a sky full of the greatest performers in the universe.

Step outside after dark for a special evening program where kids and adults can meet the stars that have guided explorers, sailors, and storytellers for thousands of years. By the end of the night, the way you view the night and the night's sky will be changed forever!

What You’ll Experience

• Stargazing & Astronomy: Peer through a high-powered telescope to see distant celestial wonders up close and witness the breathtaking aftermath of a star’s supernova.

• Wilderness Navigation: Learn to locate the North Star and uncover how ancient travelers navigated the wilderness long before GPS.

• Constellation Spotting: Master how to find and identify the most iconic constellations above the Black Hills.

• Nighttime Wildlife Exploration: Local professional naturalists will teach participants how to use thermal imaging scopes and night vision gear to discover how to spot nocturnal creatures, the terrestrial stars of the forest.

Costumes Encouraged!

Feel free to join the fun by dressing up as your favorite star, whether that’s a Hollywood actor, a fairytale princess, an astronaut, or a glowing constellation!

Date & Time: November 7th from 4:30 till 7pm

Individual Ticket: $15 per person

Family Pass: $40 (covers up to 4 family members) 

Members: Use your membership code to receive an additional 15% off your purchase

If you prefer to pay with cash you may purchase your tickets at the event.

Tip for Attendees: Dress in warm layers for the cool mountain night air, wear sturdy outdoor shoes, and feel free to bring a camp chair, blanket, snacks, and warm drink!

About Black Hills Parks and Forests Association

As an official non-profit cooperating partner with the National Park Service and U.S. Forest Service, Black Hills Parks and Forests Association supports public lands across our region. From Wind Cave National Park and regional national monuments like Jewel Cave to our local national forests and grasslands. Every store purchase and ticket sale directly helps fund Junior Ranger programs, visitor education, wildlife conservation, and public land stewardship to help us continue "Supporting wonder and exploration through stewardship of YOUR public lands".

Getting there:

Circle Z Ranch
25280 US Highway 385, Custer, SD 57730
GPS: 43.7412919, -103.6079434

From the stoplight in Custer at US 385 and US 16 (Mt. Rushmore Road), head south on US 385 for 1.7 miles. The Circle Z entrance is on the left.

Once you turn in, cross the Mickelson Trail and follow the "Event" arrow signs along the gravel road to the parking area.