It's been 35 years since the Nuits des Etoiles were created by the Association française d’astronomie to introduce astronomy and the secrets of the universe to curious minds of all kinds. Three decades on, there are now more than 350 astronomy clubs, tourism offices, holiday centres or town halls following the association in this event, and offering more than a hundred events across France.
This year, the Nuits des étoiles takes place from August 7–9, 2026; and despite the greater light pollution in Île-de-France compared with other parts of the country, the capital and its surroundings are joining in as well for aspiring astronomers, entirely free and accessible to all ages, from the smallest to the most curious grown-ups! The theme this year is dedicated to our Sun, the star at the center of it all, a perfect prelude to the big eclipse a few days later!
If the weather cooperates, you'll be able to follow the Perseids, those shooting stars that seem to come from the constellation of Perseus and are caused by the passage of comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle close to the sun. Every year, this passage creates a cloud of debris several tens of millions of kilometers long, which our beautiful blue planet passes through to the delight of our amazed eyes!
Please note that in the event of bad weather, cloudy skies or summer pollution peaks, there's a good chance that planned events will simply have to be cancelled, so be sure to check with associations and local authorities a few days beforehand, if you have any doubts.
What's more, if you can't make it to one of these observation evenings, the Association Française d'Astronomie is also offering twenty or so special events throughout the summer in parks and gardens across the capital!
Starry Nights 2026 in Paris: New Moon viewing at the Cité des Sciences
Star Night is back at the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, where science mediators have lined up a host of engaging activities in Parc de la Villette, just behind the Geode, on August 12, 2026, following a memorable eclipse. [Read more]
Star Nights 2026 in Paris: skywatching at Jardins d'Éole in the 18th arrondissement
The French Astronomical Association invites the whole family to the Jardins d'Éole on August 8, 2026, to celebrate the Nights of the Stars. A wonderful opportunity to learn more about the sky, and about this association that brings astronomy to Paris's parks and gardens all summer long! [Read more]
Starry Nights 2026 in Paris: observe the sky in Montmartre's Square Louise Michel
Head to Square Louise Michel in Montmartre on the night of August 9, 2026, for a free stargazing evening as part of the Nights of the Stars. A perfect chance to become an aspiring astronomer at the highest point in Paris! [Read more]
Starry Nights 2026 in Paris: sky-watching in the heart of the city at Parc Montsouris
The French Astronomical Association invites young and old to Montsouris Park on August 7, 2026, to celebrate Nuits des Etoiles. A great opportunity to learn more about the night sky, thanks to an installation that’s been filling Paris’s parks and gardens all summer long! [Read more]
Stargazing Nights 2026 in Trilport (77): two evening sessions to observe the sky in Seine-et-Marne
In Trilport, in the Seine-et-Marne department, the mysteries of the night sky unfold for the curious over two evenings, on August 7 and 8, 2026, for the Nuits des Etoiles. On the program: stargazing and discoveries! [Read more]
Stargazing Nights 2026: observing the night sky at the Uranoscope of Île-de-France (77)
On the occasion of Star Night, astronomy enthusiasts are gathering at the Uranoscope of Île-de-France in Seine-et-Marne on August 22, 2026! The perfect opportunity to observe the stars with pro-grade gear. [Read more]
Nights of the Stars 2026: Photo exhibition and stargazing in Vayres-sur-Essonne (91)
The Astroclub of Vayres-sur-Essonne is once again taking part in Nuits des Etoiles 2026, offering free observations open to everyone on July 31. It's a great chance to become a true astronomy whiz! [Read more]
Stargazing Nights 2026 in Saint-Ouen (93): observing the sky over Seine-Saint-Denis
And what if you headed to Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine on August 6, 2026 for an evening under the stars? To mark the Nights of the Stars, marvel at the night sky and learn more about the constellations that surround us! [Read more]
Nights of the Stars 2026: a show, workshops and stargazing at the Air and Space Museum
For the Night of the Stars 2026, the Air and Space Museum will once again open its doors for a special after-hours event, on Saturday, August 8, 2026, just a few days before a rare eclipse. [Read more]
Stargazing Night 2026 in Essarts-le-Roi (78): skywatching in Yvelines
Attention astronomy enthusiasts: the Nights of the Stars are coming back this summer, on the night of August 7, 2026, in Essarts-le-Roi, Yvelines. It’s time to gaze at the sky and its constellations all evening long. [Read more]
Nights of the Stars 2026: Eclipse tales and stargazing at the Royal Domain of Marly (78)
At the Royal Domain of Marly, for the 2026 Nights of the Stars, the Louv'Science astronomy club invites you to join them on the night of August 8 for an extraordinary stargazing session. [Read more]
It's an opportunity to feast your eyes on a mouth-watering program that's sure to please all star-lovers, young and old alike, throughout theÎle-de-France region. We wish you all a wonderful Nuits des Étoiles !
Dates and Opening Time
From August 7, 2026 to August 9, 2026
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Official website
www.afastronomie.fr
