Star Party at Catalina State Park
Catalina State Park
Oct 10 | Dec 11 | Feb 13 | Apr 24 Varies by Date
Catalina State Park’s dark skies are ideal for astronomical observation so just imagine what you can see through a telescope! Astronomers from the Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association (TAAA) will be on site with their telescopes to show you the cosmos and answer your questions. Bring a jacket, warm drinks, and red light if you have one to preserve your night vision. Meeting location varies by date so please follow signs for "Star Party". Learn more about Tucson Amateur Astronomy Association at: TucsonAstronomy.org.
Event is free with park entrance fee.
Event Dates
| Saturday, October 10th, 2026 from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM - Follow signs for “Trail Head” and “Star Party” and meet at the Trailhead Parking Lot |
| Friday, December 11th, 2026 from 6 PM – 8 PM - Follow signs for “Group Areas” and “Star Party” and meet at the Ringtail Group Area |
| Saturday, February 13th, 2027 from 7 PM – 9 PM - Follow signs for “Trail Head” and “Star Party” and meet at the Trailhead Parking Lot |
| Saturday, April 24th, 2027 from 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM - Follow signs for “Group Areas” and “Star Party” and meet at the Ringtail Group Area |
MORE EVENTS
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First and third Mondays, October - April
Catalina State Park - Past, Present, Future
Join one of our park volunteers to explore the history of Catalina State Park and its surroundings from the 1850s to today, and get a sneak peek of exciting upgrades planned.
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Thursdays, October 8 and 15, 2026
Native Plant Walk
As part of this adventure, you'll get to stroll through gorgeous desert native grasslands highlighted with cacti and desert bushes and trees. Descend into Romero Canyon to see a unique riparian array of grasses, trees and various flowering plants.
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2nd and 4th Fridays, October 9, 2026 - April 23, 2027
Nature Journaling at Catalina State Park
Learn the practices of Nature Journaling through focused observations of the flora, fauna and geology while connecting to the beauty of Catalina State Park.
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Saturdays (September-October)
Introduction to Birding by Ear
Listen for birds, learn their common sounds, and grow familiar with your local birdlife. All skill levels are welcome!
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First, Third and Fifth Fridays of the Month
Catalina Nights
Experience Catalina State Park’s desert wildlife and dark skies with a one-mile, guided hike on the Nature Trail. Registration required.
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Saturdays, starting October 17, 2026 (weather permitting)
Saturday Nature Program at Catalina State Park
Learn about the fascinating Sonoran Desert at this family-friendly program featuring live reptiles!
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Oct. 3 | Oct. 17 | Nov. 7
Music in the Mountains Concert Series
Celebrate Arizona’s vibrant music scene with a breathtaking view of the mountains! Please bring a chair, and feel free to bring food, drinks, and your best dance moves.
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Sundays, Wednesdays and select Mondays, Oct. 18, 2026 - May 17, 2027
Guided Bird Walks at Catalina
Located in the Tucson Sky Islands Important Bird Area, Catalina State Park is home to 150+ species of birds. Experienced birding guides will help you spot and identify beautiful birds as you walk through the park for 3-4 hours.
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Sundays - check dates in description
Sunday Geology Walk at Catalina
How were the Santa Catalina Mountains formed? What are some of the different rocks in the park? Learn about the geology of the park with experienced geologist, Karen.
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First Saturdays, monthly (November - May)
Buffel Slayers at Catalina State Park
Help eradicate buffelgrass from the park and Save Our Saguaros! Be prepared to work hard!
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Sundays, October 4 and November 8, 2026
Everyone Runs Trail Race at Catalina State Park
Challenge yourself to a trail race at your own pace! Multiple race options and packages are available. Registration is required.
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Second and fourth Mondays, through May
Romero Site Interpretive Hike at Catalina State Park
Join local guides for a tour of the Romero site and walk through 1000-years of indigenous Hohokam history in 90-minutes! Learn about the area’s ranching history and how the Hohokam made a living in the desert.
