Welcome to a celestial soiree under the stars! Several times a year the Robert Ferguson Observatory hosts themed, enchanted evenings as we invite our dedicated docents and esteemed members and their guests to an exclusive, open house-style event at our observatory. Whether it’s “Treats & Trivia,” “Scoops & Scopes,” or “Cider & Stars,”, each night is sure to bring fun, education, and interesting conversation!
Treats and Trivia ~
Put your space knowledge to the test in an evening of astronomy-themed fun! From celestial phenomena to rockets, satellites, and iconic sci-fi, our three-round trivia game will challenge beginners and seasoned stargazers alike. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, and even if you don’t take home a win, you’ll still enjoy an assortment of sweet treats and astronomical delights throughout the night.
After trivia concludes, we’ll open our three telescopes for a guided observing session under the night sky.
Trivia teams may include up to five participants, and we encourage mixing groups to meet new people. Plus, our volunteers tend to be very useful when astronomy questions arise.
Scoops and Scopes ~
Ice-cream sundaes, hot chocolate, and a field full of telescopes. What more could a stargazer ask for? For this special summer gathering, we invite members and volunteers to bring their own telescopes of any size or condition. Brand new? Perfect. A little dusty? Even better. Not working at all? Bring it anyway! Our volunteers will be ready to help diagnose, align, and point it toward the wonders of the night sky.
We’ll start the evening at our out-of-this-world Ice Cream Sundae Station, where you can build the perfect summer treat before settling in for a short presentation on telescope types and essential components.
Afterward, we’ll warm up with hot chocolate and tea, then head outside to explore the cosmos together through your telescopes and ours.
Stars and Cider ~
Sip hot spiced cider, enjoy festive treats, and take part in a variety of autumn-inspired activities before heading outside to explore the night sky through our telescopes.
Our Docent and Member Parties celebrate community, curiosity, and the joy of gathering under the stars. Activities vary from year to year, so you might find yourself painting a pumpkin, or hunting for planets in a themed observatory scavenger hunt, or simply relaxing with cider and cookies in costume alongside your fellow stargazers.
Come for a tour, meet our volunteers, ask questions, and enjoy an easygoing evening under the stars dedicated to the people who help RFO thrive.
Whether you’re a seasoned stargazer or a curious newcomer, our docent/member parties promise an unforgettable journey through the cosmos. Join us as we explore the mysteries of the universe together, forging connections that reach far beyond the bounds of Earth.
Visitors must have an active membership to get tickets to these free events on rfo.simpletix.com.
Where:
At The Robert Ferguson Observatory (map). Park in the gravel area near the horse corrals just outside the gate to the Group Camp/Observatory site. You do not need to pay the park day use fee to attend the class.
When:
Classes are listed on our events calendar and tickets may be purchased at rfo.simpletix.com.
- April 18, 2026 from 7:30-9:30 PM – Treats & Trivia
- July 25, 2026 from 8-10:30 PM – Scoops & Scopes
- October 24, 2026 from 7-9 PM – Stars & Cider
Price:
Free for members, docents, and their families
For more information and event FAQs please click HERE.