FESTIVALS

Our third annual Dark Sky Festival will be held 1st May 2027 till 15th May 2027

The Dark Sky Festival offers a diverse range of science, dining and night time experiences that celebrate Lord Howe Island’s spectacular nocturnal environment and our communities commitment to preserving our dark skies.

Start the festival with live music from a surprise guest (TBA) whilst enjoying some delicious food at the Lord Howe Island Golf Club. In 2026 we welcomed Australian Country Music legend James Blundell and we look forward to sharing more information about our next special guest soon!

Join our panel of science, astronomy and environmental experts to discuss such topics as;

‘Why should Love Howe consider becoming a Dark Sky Sanctuary’

‘What’s really out there?’

‘Will be ever really live on Mars?’

Our 2026 panel included Fred Watson AM, Marnie Ogg, Ian Hutton OAM and Michael Andre Phillips of Siding Spring Observatory, mediated by the original ‘Astropunk’ Mark Iscaro.

In 2026, festival guests enjoyed a selection of special dining experiences including:

Twilight Botanica Dining Experience; A celebration of Lord Howe Island produce created by local chef David Chlumsky.

Dark Dining Lord Howe Island; A blindfolded dining experience where guests depend on their senses of taste and smell.

Bowls and Black Holes ‘Fish Fry’: A space trivia experience, complemented by a traditional Lord Howe Island ‘Fish Fry’ buffet.

Capture the Milky Way and beyond with guidance from a professional astrophotographer in this intimate, hands-on experience. DSLR, iPhone and Android photography sessions are available.

Discover Lord Howe’s unique nocturnal wildlife and volcanic landscapes on a guided walk with local naturalist Ian Hutton.

Explore your inner calm and our beautiful night skies with Nicole Belliveau from Lord Howe Yoga.

Experience Lord Howe’s spectacular reef after dark with surprising hidden colours.

Event tickets: Visit darkskyfestival.info

Flight, accomodation and ticket packages: Visit oxleytravel.com.au