RASC Ottawa Public Star Parties

About our Free Public Star Parties

Our next public star parties is scheduled for Friday, May 22, 2026. See you all!

Our free, family-friendly monthly stargazing events, known as Star Parties, are open to everyone.

These gatherings offer a wonderful opportunity to explore the night sky through telescopes set up by passionate RASC Ottawa Centre members who love to share their knowledge and enthusiasm.

If it’s your first time attending, we’ve created a helpful Visitor’s Guide so you’ll know what to expect and how to make the most of your evening under the stars.

No telescope? No problem! Just bring your curiosity. If you have binoculars, feel free to bring them along too — they’re great for stargazing!

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned space enthusiast, star parties are perfect for all ages

2026 Star Party Schedule

Month	Star Party Date	Backup Date 1	Backup Date 2	Backup Date 3	Timings
May	Fri, May 8 Cancelled due to weather	Sat, May 9 Cancelled due to weather	Fri, May 22	Sat, May 23	9:00PM – 11:00PM
June	Fri, Jun 19	Sat, Jun 20			9:30PM – 11:30PM
July	Fri, Jul 17	Sat, Jul 18	Fri, Jul 24	Sat, Jul 25	9:30PM – 11:30PM
August	Fri, Aug 14	Sat, Aug 15	Fri, Aug 21	Sat, Aug 22	9:00PM – 11:00PM
September	Fri, Sep 4	Sat, Sep 5	Sun, Sep 6	Fri, Sep 18	8:30PM – 10:30PM

Each event has backup/rain date(s) to make sure you still get a chance to enjoy the skies if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

📍Location

Our star parties are held in the parking lot of the Carp Branch of the Ottawa Public Library (scroll down for map and address).

Admission is always free, and basic conveniences are available on-site.

☁️ Weather & GO/NO-GO Decisions
Before heading out to the event, please check our website for a GO/NO-GO decision based on the weather forecast. We aim to post an update a few hours before the event begins.

However, skies can change quickly. If conditions worsen unexpectedly, we may need to cancel last-minute or end the event earlier than planned. We’ll do our best to post real-time updates, but we encourage you to use your best judgment when deciding whether to attend.

Your safety and enjoyment are our top priorities!

🛠️ Need Help With Your Telescope?

Have a telescope but unsure how to use it?
Bring it 90 minutes before sunset, and our friendly volunteers will be happy to help you set it up, troubleshoot any issues, and get you started on your observing journey. We’re here to support and encourage budding astronomers!

📬Contact Us

Have questions or need more info?
Feel free to reach out to us at starparties@ottawa.rasc.ca — we’re happy to help!