These Free Stargazing Events Around L.A. Are Perfect To Catch Some Shooting Stars — No Telescope Required

Many people think you have to leave L.A. to enjoy the view of the dark skies at night and catch the stars, but that’s not always the case. Though secluded places away from light pollution are perfect for stargazing, there are also opportunities to enjoy this mesmerizing activity right here in town. From Silver Lake to Santa Monica and all the way to the San Gabriel Mountains, the Los Angeles Astronomical Society organizes regular events that offer incredible views of the cosmos! These events are relaxed, welcoming, and free to attend; some even include music or beautiful ocean views. Star Party Silver Lake -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Every Thursday night, Sunset Triangle Plaza, in Silver Lake, turns into a neighborhood stargazing hotspot. The “Star Party” combines telescopes, good vibes, and sometimes live music or wine for a social astronomy experience unlike any other. You don’t need to bring gear, just curiosity and maybe a jacket. 📍 Location: 3700 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90026 Santa Monica Sidewalk Astronomy on the Beach ------------------------------------------------ Once a month, astronomy fans gather right on the beach at Ocean Front Walk in Santa Monica for a relaxed, oceanside stargazing night. This event offers a chance to view celestial wonders through powerful telescopes while hearing the waves crash nearby. Events usually take place on Saturday evenings. 📍 Location: 2400 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, CA 90405 Garvey Observatory Public Nights ------------------------------------ Held nearly every Wednesday, this event offers a more traditional (but still very accessible) astronomy experience. Here, visitors can explore the night sky through professional-grade telescopes and learn directly from passionate amateur astronomers. It’s a great intro to astronomy for all ages, and you can even peek into the on-site telescope workshop! 📍 Location: 781 S. Orange Ave, Monterey Park, CA 91755 [Public Star Parties at Griffith Observatory](https://secretlosangeles.com/griffith-observatory-astronomy/) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Once a month, these public star parties are some of the most popular in the city. Local telescope owners set up along the lawn, offering free peeks at the planets, stars, and more. It’s a [family-friendly](https://secretlosangeles.com/best-things-to-do-with-children-in-la/) event that draws big crowds, so come early for the best views and parking. 📍 Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027 [Mount Wilson Public Star Parties](https://secretlosangeles.com/cosmic-cafe-los-angeles/) --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A little farther from the city but worth the trip, the Mount Wilson public star parties offer some of the darkest skies near L.A. These events take place roughly once a month and let visitors observe from the same historic mountaintop that once housed the world’s largest telescope. With high-altitude views and less light pollution, it’s a dream setting for spotting deep-sky objects. 📍 Location: Mt Wilson Circle Rd, La Cañada, CA 91107 For more information and updated info and dates on all these events, check the Los Angeles Astronomical Society website here. Source: https://secretlosangeles.com/free-stargazing-events-los-angeles/