Explore Stargazing

Across Muskoka

Muskoka: Home of the Stars

October 16 - November 7, 2026 • 18 Events Across Muskoka

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the stars, witnessing the northern lights, or capturing the Milky Way in all its glory, Muskoka is your ultimate destination. With the stunning landscape, world-class dark sky preserves, and abundant opportunities for adventure, Muskoka is quickly becoming a top spot for astro-tourism. Here’s how we’re shining a light on our dark skies and inviting astro-enthusiasts from around the globe to join us. Many people ask where the ‘Stars’ live and you just need to look up ;).

Find out more details below on each program or enjoy a self-guided experience! Muskoka is home to Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Reserve. Few places in Ontario offer such an opportunity to view the stars and Milky Way. The main dark sky viewing area is on the smooth granite outcrop.

$10 + fees = $11.37 | Final sale | Online Tickets Only

Events are cancelled 24 hours prior for heavy rain.

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Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience

Start time: 8pm | $10* per person
Guide: Phil
October 16, 17, 30, 31 + November 6, 7

Join Phil for an enchanting evening under the night sky as you uncover the myths and legends woven into the constellations. Perfect for beginners, this guided session will teach you how to spot major constellations with the naked eye while learning the fascinating cultural stories behind them — from ancient Greek heroes and mythical beasts to Indigenous sky lore.

As you journey through the cosmos, you’ll also discover mind-blowing facts about stars, planets, and galaxies that will deepen your appreciation for the universe. With simple tips on stargazing and plenty of time for questions, this relaxing experience will leave you inspired and connected to the night sky.

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Introduction to Photographing the Night Sky

Start time: 8pm | $10* per person
Guide: Scott
October 24, 30 + November 6, 7

Discover how to capture beautiful photographs of the night sky in this hands-on introduction to night photography with Ontario photographer Scott Visscher.

In this 90-minute session, Scott will introduce the fundamentals of photographing stars, including camera settings, focusing in the dark, exposure, composition and choosing the right conditions for a great image. You’ll also learn practical techniques for combining the night sky with the surrounding landscape to create compelling nightscape photographs.

Participants are encouraged to bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera, smartphone and a tripod. The session is designed for all experience levels, from those completely new to night photography to photographers looking to build on their existing skills. You’ll leave with practical knowledge and techniques you can use to start capturing your own photographs of the night sky.

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Astro-Photography 101

Start time: 8pm | $10* per person
Guide: Robin
October 23, 24 + November 6, 7

Catch the moon, paint the stars, and tell a story with light. Learn to take real night sky photos with just your phone. No fancy gear needed — we bring the tricks, you bring your curiosity to experience the dark skies over Muskoka.

When the sun sets, the show begins. This 60-minute hands-on program teaches anyone how to capture the night sky with the camera.

Participants will discover three achievable night sky images: a crisp, detailed moon (when visible), a creative star-trail / light-painting image, and a constellation story silhouette that blends photography with natural and scientific interpretation. We cover simple phone settings (night mode, focus lock, no flash), low-cost stability tricks for cold Muskoka nights, and, how to use spotting scopes and DSLRs for deeper images while connecting star stories, constellations and deep sky objects.

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Fall Constellations: Stories & Mythologies

Start time: 8pm | $10* per person
Guide: Emara
October 17, 18, 23, 24

Join Emara for an evening of marveling at the autumn night sky – dress warmly, and bring a camping chair and blankets if you wish! You will stargaze at locations with minimal light pollution, and discuss the importance of dark skies.

You will learn key constellations of October evenings, with a “spooky season” twist. Exploring stories in the sky involving dragons, sea monsters, the “demon star”, and more!

It’s also meteor shower season -keep your eyes peeled for “shooting stars”!

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Astronomy in Action Orion Dome

Deerhurst Resort, Huntsville – October 17 from 3:00 – 6:00 pm

FREE TO ATTEND | NO TICKET REQUIRED
The planetarium programs bring the wonders of the universe to life for every audience.

https://www.astronomyinaction.com/

Full Schedule

Friday, October 16, 2026

Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience – Deerhurst Adventure Park, Huntsville

Saturday, October 17, 2026

Fall Constellations: Stories & Mythologies — Ryde Co-op, Gravenhurst
Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience – Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsville

Sunday, October 18, 2026

Fall Constellations: Stories & Mythologies — Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Reserve, Muskoka Lakes

Friday, October 23, 2026

Fall Constellations: Stories & Mythologies — Ryde Co-Op, Gravenhurst
Astro-Photography 101 – Deerhurst Adventure Park, Huntsville

Saturday, October 24, 2026

Fall Constellations: Stories & Mythologies — Ryde Co-Op, Gravenhurst
Introduction to Photographing the Night Sky – Wilson’s Falls, Bracebridge
Astro-Photography 101 – Deerhurst Adventure Park, Huntsville

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Friday, October 30, 2026

Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience – Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsville
Introduction to Photographing the Night Sky – Ryde Co-Op, Gravenhurst

Saturday, October 31, 2026

Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience – Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsville

Friday, November 6, 2026

Introduction to Photographing the Night Sky – Wilson’s Falls, Bracebridge
Astro-Photography 101 – Deerhurst Adventure Park, Huntsville
Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience – Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Reserve, Muskoka Lakes

Saturday, November 7, 2026

Introduction to Photographing the Night Sky – Torrance Barrens Dark Sky Reserve, Muskoka Lakes
Stories in the Stars: A Beginner’s Stargazing Experience – Arrowhead Provincial Park, Huntsville
Astro-Photography 101 – Dwight Beach, Lake of Bays

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Event Guide: Concerts, Family Fun and More!

Muskoka offers a wide range of events, from live music to family fun and celebrations for the local cranberry harvest. Visit our Event Guide for a full list of what is happening.

October 16 – 18: Bala Cranberry Festival
October 16: Terra Lightfoot at Sandhill Nursery – Huntsville
October 17: The BOMB: A Retro 80’s Live Experience at Gravenhurst Opera House
October 17: Yuk Yuk’s on Tour at Sandhill Nursery – Huntsville
October 23: Caroline Marie Brooks at Sandhill Nursery – Huntsville
October 24: OktoberBaus BrewBus Tours
October 24: Grace 2 – Celebrating The Tragically Hip at Gravenhurst Opera House
October 24: We Walk the Line: A Johnny Cash Tribute at Rene M. Cassie Memorial Theatre in Bracebridge
October 29 – November 1: Elvis & Co Music Festival at Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville
October 30: Off the Rock at Algonquin Theatre in Huntsville
October 31: Great Pumpkin Trail at Muskoka Heritage Place in Huntsville
November 6 – 8: Huntsville’s Girlfriends’ Getaway Weekend at Deerhurst Resort
November 7: Tommy Youngsteen – The Very Best of Paul Simon at Gravenhurst Opera House

More Things To Do in the Region

Looking to do more? Check out this list of top things

1. Blue Willow Tea Shop – Enjoy tasty high tea at the Gravenhurst Wharf.

2. Visit 5 different craft breweries! Make a visit to all five craft breweries in the region: Muskoka Brewery, Lake of Bays Brewery, Canvas Brewing, Clear Lake Brewing Co., and Sawdust City Brewing Co.

3. Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery – Enjoy a wine-tasting tour, hike around the bogs, or have wine and cheese on the patio.

4. Hike one of the many hiking trails in Muskoka. Some of the popular trails are Kahshe Barrens, Huckleberry Rock, Lion’s Lookout, and Hardy Lake.

5. Muskoka Discovery Centre – Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Muskoka’s past and present.

6. Visit a theatre and take in some great shows. Check out the Algonquin Theatre, Gravenhurst Opera House, and Rene M Caisse Memorial Theatre

7. Escape Cabins at Deerhurst – Submerge yourself in the stories, solve puzzles, codes, clues and problems and discover hidden secrets! Games are designed to engage all ages from 5 and up. Choose from four different cabins: Uncle Tick Tock’s Circus, Kraken Casino, Sven’s Last Secret and The Artist is Missing.

8. Climb Muskoka in Bracebridge provides a unique community-focused recreation experience in an inclusive and family-friendly environment. They inspire people to develop a passion for physical activity and a love of climbing.

9. Hop on the Cranberry Route, running across Muskoka until October 18. A fun-filled (and tasty) trail inspired by Muskoka’s love for cranberries!