Celebrate the longest day—and brightest night—of the year!
Welcome summer with an unforgettable evening under the stars at the Robert Ferguson Observatory’s Summer Solstice Soirée! Join us as we celebrate the turning of the season with good company, twilight views of the Sonoma hills, and a night of celestial discovery.
As the sun sets on the longest day of the year, enjoy summertime treats and the warm glow of golden hour at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park. Once darkness falls, our observatory telescopes will open for guided viewing of the night sky—featuring planets, star clusters, and deep-sky wonders. Our astronomers and docents will be on hand to share insights about the solstice, the science behind it, and its significance across cultures.
Come for the sunset, stay for the starlight, and celebrate the beauty of our shared skies.
All ages are welcome. Bring a flashlight with a red light setting (no white light allowed). Red light flashlights will also be available for purchase.
$40.00 per adult, $35.00 for seniors (62+) and students, and $30 for members. Cost includes the Sugarloaf Ridge State Park parking fee.
You MUST have a ticket to attend this event. Attendance is limited. Please note that tickets are non-refundable and cannot be used for future events.
RFO is operated by the Valley of the Moon Observatory Association, a 501(3)(c) nonprofit organization, and all of the proceeds will go towards maintaining this beloved Sonoma county institution.
The Valley of the Moon Observatory Association (VMOA) is volunteer amateur and professional astronomers plus a small supporting staff organized as a nonprofit association to provide educational programs about science and astronomy for students, the public, and in support of educators.
The VMOA is responsible for the construction, maintenance and utilization of the Robert Ferguson Observatory and functions as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization under the auspices of the California State Parks System, and in cooperation with our local state parks.
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