Step outside, look up and rediscover the night. During International Dark Sky Week, April 13–20, the Fairfax County Park Authority invites the community to experience the beauty of dark skies and take simple steps to protect them.

Excessive artificial light washes out the stars, disrupts wildlife and impacts human health. Fairfax County’s parks play a critical role in preserving natural darkness across urban and suburban landscapes, offering opportunities for stargazing, education and conservation.

Take action this week and help protect the night:

• Use responsible outdoor lighting practices at home.
• Dim lights at night to support migrating birds.
• Reduce glare and light trespass in your neighborhood.
• Report your dark sky lighting on the Watch the Green Grow website.
• Explore astronomy programs and night-sky experiences at county parks.
• Borrow a Dark Skies Kit through Fairfax County Public Library to measure light levels in your community.

Small changes make a lasting impact. Protect wildlife, improve energy efficiency and help bring the stars back to Fairfax County skies.

Learn more by visiting the Dark Skies webpage.