Planets and Pancakes

Watch planets rise before dawn and enjoy a relaxed breakfast during this early-morning Planets & Pancakes experience.

Join us at the Heide Observatory at Hawthorn Hollow for Planets & Pancakes, a pre-dawn astronomy experience that pairs planetary observing with a relaxed breakfast as the Sun begins to rise.

Early August mornings offer excellent opportunities to spot planets climbing into the sky just before daylight, and guests may observe Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, Neptune, and possibly Mercury, depending on conditions. Observatory staff will guide guests through telescope viewing and naked-eye identification of the morning planets while explaining how and why planetary visibility changes throughout the year. As dawn approaches, we’ll gather for a pancake and sausage breakfast, with coffee and juice available, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Hawthorn Hollow in the early morning hours. Please note that any images used for promotion may not accurately represent the pancakes served, but we promise to make every effort to deliver a satisfying and well-earned breakfast after a morning under the planets.

🔔 Important Event Information — Late Evening / Overnight Event (Summer)

Weather-Dependent Event:

This program requires clear skies. If cloud cover greater than 40% is forecast, the event will be canceled or rescheduled. Notification will be sent by email no later than 24 hours before the scheduled start time.

Email Communication Is Critical:

Weather updates and event notices are sent to the email address used at ticket checkout. Please double-check that your email is correct and keep an eye on spam or promotions folders. If you purchase tickets using an email you rarely check, the cosmos will not notify you directly.

Comfort & Conditions:

Even on warm summer nights, temperatures can drop after sunset—dress warmer than you think you’ll need. Lower dew points can also lead to damp conditions, so blankets or chairs that can handle moisture are recommended.

Insects Exist and They Know You’re There:

Bring your favorite insect repellent. The stars are peaceful; the mosquitoes are not. We observe the universe—not the bugs—but they may still attempt first contact.

Please contact us at observatory@hawthornhollow.org