Question 1

What information do I need to register and purchase a ticket?

Accepted Answer

For EACH ticket the PA State Park requires you to provide your: name, email, emergency contact number, and if applicable the number of children (under 18) that will be attending. This is mandated by DCNR.

Question 2

How many tickets may I purchase?

Accepted Answer

You may purchase up to 4 tickets on any single order.  For larger quantities you will have to enter a second order.

Question 3

Is there a charge for children?

Accepted Answer

No. Children under 18 may enter for free when accompanied by a paying adult. We ask that any children attending be listed on registration forms.

Question 4

Can I get a refund?

Accepted Answer

No, we don't offer refunds.

Question 5

What if the weather is poor or raining?

Accepted Answer

The star party is a rain or shine event, so it will not be rescheduled and no refunds are offered.

Question 6

What does the fee cover?

Accepted Answer

The entry fee covers camping (tents, campers, RVs, etc.) on the astronomy field for Friday and Saturday night of the star party and access to all event programming.

Question 7

Do you provide telescopes and camping gear?

Accepted Answer

No. You are responsible for bringing all of your own equipment. A food vendor will be on site.

Question 8

Can I get on a waiting list if the event is sold out?

Accepted Answer

Yes, wait list tickets are automatically filled in the order in which they are made. If available, you will be contacted automatically with instructions on how to purchase your ticket. No further action is required. PLEASE do not contact the organizer to ask where your name is on the list.

Question 9

What if I arrive early or want to stay extra nights?

Accepted Answer

You may arrive before and/or stay after the star party, but you will need to pay the usual nightly park fee. If you are staying for the Friday/Saturday evenings, you must pay the BFSP entry fee as the entire field is reserved. If you are not registered, a Park Ranger may ask you to leave.

Question 10

Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?

Accepted Answer

You can edit your order to put your ticket in someone else’s name and email. This does not remove the ticket from your Eventbrite account, but the new attendee will receive an email for them to claim the ticket. (See Eventbrite Help)

Question 11

Can I sell my ticket?

Accepted Answer

Some choose to sell their ticket to friends or through sites like Cloudy Nights. See above for how to transfer tickets. As organizer of BFSP we do not get involved in resales.

Question 12

Can I leave the overnight astronomy field at night?

Accepted Answer

The gate to the Overnight Astronomy Observation Field (OAOF) will be closed at dusk. If you are not staying the night on the astronomy field, DO NOT PARK inside the OAOF gate. No vehicle entry or exit will be allowed until sunrise, unless there is an emergency. You may leave the grounds on foot.

Question 13

What if I have an emergency in the evening?

Accepted Answer

If you must leave due to an emergency, please attempt to contact the Star Party staff beforehand. If this is not possible, please LOUDLY announce your emergency to others in the area so they can help to clear a path for a safe exit. Do not drive without headlights.

Question 14

Will I be able to buy food at the event?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a vendor will provide both lunch and dinner on Friday. Breakfast, lunch and dinner Saturday, and breakfast Sunday. Breakfast hours 8am-10am, lunch 11am-4pm, dinner 5pm to 11pm.

Question 15

Can I bring my pet dog or kangaroo?

Accepted Answer

No pets are allowed. This restriction is a PA State Park regulation. In the past attendees have attempted to bring pets in secretly and even in plain sight. Anyone arriving with dogs or pets of any kind will be asked to leave by Park Rangers.

Question 16

Anything else I should know before purchasing a ticket?

Accepted Answer

By registering for the BFSP you and all members of your party agree to hold harmless the Commonwealth and Central Pennsylvania Observers from all liabilities as noted in the rules provided digitally and/or printed copies available at the registration desk.

Black Forest Star Party 2025