The town of Julian will host the San Diego Dark Sky Festival on Saturday, August 16, 2025. The event, held at Menghini Winery from 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., coincides with a moonless night, making it the perfect opportunity to witness one of the year’s most spectacular celestial displays: the Perseids meteor shower.
Certified as an International Dark Sky Place, Julian offers optimal conditions for stargazing thanks to its minimal light pollution and clear skies. The festival is organized by the Julian Dark Sky Network and supported by various organizations, including DarkSky San Diego, Borrego Springs Dark Sky Coalition, and the Dark Sky Committee of the Fallbrook Land Conservancy, among others.
Experts to Attend the Dark Sky Festival
The event will feature Dr. Robert Quimby, director of Mount Laguna Observatory and professor of astronomy at San Diego State University. Dr. Quimby will give a special talk on the latest breakthroughs in astronomical research which have taken place at the observatory.
Beyond the meteor shower, the festival will offer activities for all ages, including dark sky conservation exhibits, telescope viewing sessions, guided night sky tours with laser pointers, and interactive workshops for kids.
Admission is free, and attendees are encouraged to bring warm clothing, blankets, or chairs to comfortably enjoy the starry night. The festival promises to be a unique experience for astronomy and nature lovers in Julian, a town renowned for its scenic beauty, rich history, and commitment to preserving the night sky.
Menghini Winery is located in the heart of Julian, San Diego County, which has become one of Southern California’s premier stargazing destinations.
