Enjoy a night under the stars at NNMC’s Sky Fest 2026!

Free community event includes planetarium shows, telescope viewing and hands-on activities

Join Northern New Mexico College’s Math & Physical Science Department for Sky Fest 2026, our second annual evening of astronomy, exploration and stargazing. From 6 – 9 p.m. October 16, 2026, at the Nick Salazar Center for the Arts, enjoy a range of astronomy activities and telescope viewing guided by astronomy enthusiasts. This free event is designed to appeal to both experienced stargazers and those who have never looked through a telescope before.

"Sky Fest is a great opportunity for families, students, and curious minds of all ages to ask questions, learn something new, and enjoy the night sky together," said Heather Pierce, NNMC STEM Holistic Advisor. 

Astronomy Activities & Presentations | 6–8 PM
Explore astronomy through activities and presentations throughout the CFA, including:
• Portable planetarium shows
• Hands-on astronomy and STEM activities
• Astronomy talks and presentations
• Interactive demonstrations and displays
• Opportunities to meet people who work with—or are passionate about—astronomy and space science

Telescope Viewing & Constellations | 8–9 PM
As the sky gets dark, the evening will move outdoors for guided telescope viewing so visitors can take a closer look at objects visible in the October night sky. Volunteers and astronomy enthusiasts will help visitors use the telescopes, explain what they are seeing and answer questions.

The evening includes a guided tour of the night sky, where participants can learn to recognize visible constellations, bright stars and other features of the fall sky.

Telescope viewing is weather dependent, but all indoor Sky Fest activities will take place even if the skies are cloudy.

Organizations: Join Us at Sky Fest!
Schools, clubs, community organizations, STEM programs, college departments and other groups are invited to host a table or activity during the event. Astronomy and STEM-related displays, demonstrations, activities, resources and community information are especially welcome.

Sign Up for a Sky Fest Table here. 

Want to Help with Sky Fest?
We are also looking for volunteers and community members to help make Sky Fest a great evening. There are many ways to participate:
• Give a short astronomy or space-related talk
• Bring a telescope and help with telescope viewing
• Lead or assist with an astronomy activity
• Help with portable planetarium shows
• Assist with setup, check-in or event activities
• Help visitors identify constellations and objects in the night sky
• Share another astronomy-related skill, activity or idea

You do not have to be a professional astronomer to help. If you enjoy astronomy, STEM, education or working with the community, we would love to hear from you.

Volunteer or Participate in Sky Fest here.

Come look up, explore and experience the wonder of the night sky at Sky Fest 2026!

The details: 

What: Sky Fest 2026
Where: Nick Salazar Center for the Arts at Northern New Mexico College
Date: Friday, October 16, 2026
Time: 6–9 p.m.
Cost: Free