August Star Gazing and Laser Nights

August Star Gazing and Laser Nights

When

August 8, 2026    
5:30 pm - 11:00 pm

Event Type

Event opens at 5:30 pm • Telescopes after sunset • Event ends by 11:00 pm

Celebrate Meteor Day at the Virginia Living Museum with a special evening of astronomy, laser shows, and family-friendly activities inspired by the annual Perseid Meteor Shower.

As the sun goes down, the night sky comes alive with free outdoor stargazing (weather permitting), planetarium programs, and dazzling laser shows under the dome of the Abbitt Planetarium. Stop by the planetarium lobby throughout the evening for special Meteor Day activities and learn more about one of the year’s most anticipated celestial events.

Stargazing

As darkness falls, our astronomy team will guide you through Virginia’s night sky. Look for planets, star clusters, and seasonal constellations while learning about the upcoming Perseid Meteor Shower.

Telescopes: Abbitt Observatory or Conservation Garden, depending on the weather forecast.

Observing is free and open to all event attendees.

Entry

Main Entrance open for check-in.

Shows in the Abbitt Planetarium

Please note: Planetarium and laser shows require advance registration and a paid ticket.

6:00 PM – The Sky Tonight
A live guided tour of the current evening sky with a staff astronomer, including highlights of the upcoming Perseid Meteor Shower.

7:00 PM – Laser Country
A high-energy laser light show featuring country music favorites paired with vibrant laser effects.

8:30 PM – Laser Floyd: The Vision Bell
Experience the music of Pink Floyd accompanied by immersive laser visuals projected across the planetarium dome.

10:00 PM – Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon
A classic laser show set to one of the most iconic albums of all time.

Perfect for date nights, family adventures, or a unique night out with friends. Tickets are limited, so reserve your seats early for your favorite show.

Heads Up!

The Virginia Living Museum will open at 11AM to the public today to allow staff to get operations up and running after extensive power loss last night.

This will NOT interfere with regular summer camp operations, camp will begin at 9AM. 

Thank you for your patience!

Wild Explorations

Heads Up! The Changing Exhibit Gallery, where our Wild Explorations exhibit lives, will close at 3PM today in preparation for an after hours event!