Star Fest 2025
“Sharing the Sky” – Celebrating 40 Years!
Dates: November 7-9, 2025
Where: Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium
Registration Rates:
- Registration: $240.00
- Full-time Student Rate (Grades 6 and above) : $168.00
- Please note this is for full-time students of any age. Sorry, “student of life” doesn’t count.
- Young Astronomer (Grades K – 5) : $96.00
- Proto-Astronomer (Grades up through Pre-K) : $48.00
Attendance will be limited and registration must be received by the deadline, October 19, 2025, 11:59pm.
To be fair to our registered delegates, there are no walk-ins nor “visits.” Please register each person.
If you would like to be added to the StarFest mailing list, please click here.
Important Update
Due to a planned water maintenance project, the water will be turned off at the park and bathrooms will be closed during StarFest. There will be portable toilets and handwashing stations available next to the Farmstead Museum, Herpetarium and in the parking lot in front of the Nature Center.
Our apologies for the inconvenience.
Registration for StarFest 2025 is now open!
How to Register:
Online Registration – Click the link below.
- This will take you directly to the StarFest 2025 event in CivicRec, the City of Kingsport’s interface for all activities and rentals.
- If you already have a user account, just log in. If you are not in the system, you’ll set up a new user account with password. You can add additional family members to your account.
- Once logged in, you will find the event on the Catalog page – Click on the Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium button near the top of the page, then scroll down to BMP Astronomy/Observing and click on BMP Astronomy Ticketed Events to see the StarFest 2025 event.
- Scroll down to select the Account Member and Quantity to add a registration to your cart. If registering additional family members, please add them to the cart individually. Also, please remember that you must register each individual that will be attending meals and activities, even if they are a small child.
- To complete the registration process – click the Checkout button in your cart.
- Make your personalized choices like Hoodie size, vegetarian options, additional hoodie jacket orders, etc. for each registrant.
- Click on the Submit Responses button to complete the payment process.
- When complete, you’ll receive an email with your receipt for registration.
To Pay by Check – Click the button below to download the registration form.
- Please complete a separate sheet for each person registering.
- Send in the registration form(s) along with a check to the address listed on the bottom of the form.
- We’ll send you a confirmation to your email when we receive your registration form.
Bays Mountain StarFest 2025:
“Sharing the Sky”
Greetings Everyone!
The 40th StarFest at Bays Mountain Park is soon upon us. Expect beautiful fall colors, cooler weather, and lots of astronomy fun for this astronomical convention / star party. The event is hosted by the Bays Mountain Astronomy Club (BMAC) and the Bays Mountain Park Association. It is being held November 7-9, 2025. It is run as a non-profit event, so the registration fee is as low as possible to cover our expenses.
The theme of this year’s event is “Sharing the Sky.” Each of our four keynote speakers uses their unique and creative talents to Share the Sky with the public. Employing such varied methods as artistic mediums, performance storytelling, tactile explorations, and astrophotography, these four speakers will show us how they use these creative techniques to share their love of the night sky!
This year includes four distinctive keynote speakers, five great meals, door prizes, the ever popular swap shop, and telescope viewing*. The recently upgraded main lobby and gift shop will be open and features a beautiful new entrance to the Planetarium Theater. And be sure to check out the new Nature Exhibits in the gallery area that surrounds the planetarium.
In addition to all the StarFest activities, public programs and activities will be available at the park, such as the wildlife exhibits, planetarium shows, barge rides, and plenty of trails to explore.
A unique facet of StarFest over the years has been a commemorative T-shirt with one-of-a-kind artwork that is included with each registration. This year, since we are celebrating the 40th year of StarFest, we have something special. Instead of a T-shirt, every registrant will receive a comfy zip-up hoodie with one-of-a-kind artwork! Extra hoodies can be pre-ordered.
This three-day long gathering is filled with great activities but also makes sure there’s quality free time for you to explore the Park and enjoy the camaraderie of your fellow StarFesters. Registration includes everything and there are three levels of student discounts available. The student discount is quite generous to continue our long-term support of student involvement.
SPECIAL NOTE – This year, check-in at the park will begin at noon on Friday, which will give registrants free access to all Bays Mountain programs from Friday afternoon through Sunday!
If you cancel your registration by the October 19, 2025 deadline, you will receive a full refund. No refunds after that date.
Greg Penner – StarFest 2025 Chair
*Note: We’ll have public observing sessions in the fall, including the Saturday of StarFest. Delegates wanting to share day or night observing with other delegates or the public do so at their discretion. Personal observing is always an option.
Sleeping Accommodations
Marriott MeadowView Conference Center & Resort
Special Room Rate – $139.00/night
For those wanting a little more comfort in the evening, we have arranged for a special rate at the Marriott MeadowView Resort located just 3 miles from the park. This is the closest and also the most luxurious amenity in the Tri-Cities region. It is a four+ star facility. Use the button link below or call the MeadowView Hotel (423-578-6600) and ask for the StarFest rate. This $139.00 + tax rate is guaranteed up to October 20, 2025. There are also five other hotels within a quarter mile of MeadowView for more options.
Sleeping at Bays Mountain Park
If you want to sleep within the Park grounds (at no additional charge!), you can bring a small camper / popup, sleep in your car, pitch a tent or use a hammock. StarFest is the only event of the entire year in which we allow non-primitive camping.
The Park does NOT have showers, but the bathrooms will remain open and camp fires are NOT allowed in the Park.
RV/Camper:
- You can set up in the large lot just above the observatories.
- For those using a generator, please set up in the overflow parking by the Maintenance Building which is located up past the Farmstead Museum.
Tent Camping:
- If you want to pitch a tent or use a hammock, a great area is uphill, back behind the Zip Line up towards the Maintenance Building. This space will be out of the way of the general public and more secluded.
- Please, do not pitch a tent anywhere near the parking lots nor observatory.
- Also make sure tree damage does not occur.
Keynote Speakers & Activities:
Richard Wright
Title: “Adventures of an Accidental Astronomer”
Abstract:
Although not strictly an astronomer by profession, Richard has had the fortune and privilege of working and studying in the astronomy field professionally for the last couple of decades. A software developer by profession, but an astronomer at heart, Richard will share his journey from an astronomy enthusiast to a successful astronomy product developer, writer, and astrophotographer.
Bio:
Richard S. Wright Jr. is a contributing editor for Sky & Telescope magazine, specializing in astrophotography and equipment reviews. Professionally, he’s a computer graphics and imaging specialist at LunarG, Inc., focusing on cutting-edge GPU and graphics technologies. A lifelong amateur astronomer and accomplished astrophotographer, Richard has also contributed to astronomy software such as Starry Night, TheSky, and Sky Safari. He currently leads application development for the world’s first “Smart Eyepiece,” in collaboration with Simulation Curriculum and Pegasus Astro. Explore his gallery and blog at www.eveningshow.com.
Noreen Grice – Western Connecticut State University
Title: “Sharing the Sky: Using Tactile Materials to Make Astronomy More Accessible”
Abstract:
Tactile images and explorations can be used in multiple ways to make astronomy more engaging for visually impaired, bind and sighted learners. In this talk, Noreen Grice will discuss how she (and you!) can bring the night sky to the fingertips of all learners. Experience celestial objects in new and exciting ways!
Noreen also shared the following to include:
Noreen Grice will sign your copies of her books Touch the Stars (5th edition) and Everyone’s Universe (2nd edition). These books must be ordered in advance so you can bring them with you to this event.
To order Touch the Stars (this book has print and tactile images):
Touch the Stars, Fifth edition
To order Everyone’s Universe (resource for those who present star parties):
Bio:
Noreen Grice is an award-winning astronomy educator, author and life-long learner. She teaches astronomy at Western Connecticut State University, has served as President of the Middle Atlantic Planetarium Society, and is the Founder of You Can Do Astronomy LLC where she makes astronomy more accessible to learners who are blind or visually impaired.
Planetarium Program
“Big Astronomy: People, Places, Discoveries”
Journey to three world-class observatories in Chile’s rugged Andes Mountains and arid Atacama Desert— where the dark skies and dry, remote setting create ideal conditions for observing the Universe. Against a backdrop of breathtaking visuals and a hypnotic soundtrack, you’ll meet an inspiring cast of astronomers, engineers, technicians, and support staff who push the limits of technology, enable scientific discovery and expand what we know about the Universe using state-of-the-art telescopes.
The program ends with a unique look at the night sky seen from south of the equator.
Panel Discussion
This presentation will be a guided discussion with our keynote speakers. Its purpose is to give insight into the people behind the professional titles. It will be quite interesting to see how each responds to the questions posed!
Jackie Baughman – Challenger Learning Center of Lockport
Title: “Beyond the Observable: How Artists Can Help Visualize the Cosmos”
Abstract:
Art has been a part of capturing and conveying the wonders of astronomy throughout human history. From ancient cave paintings to modern techniques like digital painting and 3D modeling, we utilize a variety of artistic mediums to share our knowledge and passion for astronomy. The arts can often be undervalued in science, but art can be an invaluable tool in communicating many high-level science concepts to the general public in a way that can be both informative and inspiring. I’ve spent much of my career combining art and astronomy, and strive to show how important and useful they can be one another.
Bio:
Jackie Baughman has worked in Planetariums for over 15 years teaching a wide variety of ages and subjects. She has a Bachelor’s in Business with a focus in Graphic Design. She got her start in Planetariums as a Staff Artist and Show Presenter. Jackie’s two great passions in life are astronomy and art. She loves talking about either subject and getting more people interested in space. She is currently living in Buffalo, NY where she is the Planetarium and Education Program Manager at the Challenger Learning Center of Lockport. She is also the Publications Chair for the Great Lakes Planetarium Association.
Mike Francis
Title: “In the footsteps of Galileo”
Abstract:
Astronomy is more than collections of data and proposals of theories on the nature of the Universe. It’s also the stories of the men and women who sought the data and posed those theories. One of the best stories to demonstrate is that of Galileo. Considered the father of modern science by many, few people really know what Galileo did. Using only basic mathematics, no calculus, no algebra, Galileo discovered numerous laws of nature. Using Galileo’s story we’ll look at how to use performance under the dome.
Bio:
Mike Francis (MS, Ohio University, Interdisciplinary Studies, MA, Ohio University, Physics, BS Ed, Fitchburg State College, Physics) has been bringing Astronomy to schools, libraries and museums throughout New England and across the country for over thirty years. After ten years as a lecturer, photographer and writer at the Charles Hayden Planetarium at Boston’s Museum of Science, he branched out on his own with his Galileo Galilei the Starry Messenger, The Stargazer’s Apprentice and Night Skies programs.
By combining science and theatre, Mike has been able to reach students who previously had no interest in the wonders of our Universe. In addition to his programs in schools, he has visited the Space Telescope Science Institute, Carnegie Science Center, the Franklin Institute, the National Air and Space Museum, astronomical conventions and numerous events during the International Year of Astronomy, a celebration of the 400th anniversary of Galileo’s use of the telescope.
Mike is also a professional actor on stage, screen and television and a member of the Screen Actors Guild – American Federation of Television and Radio Artists and Actors Equity Association. As an actor educator he belongs to the International Museum Theatre Alliance, the International Planetarium Society, the Mid Atlantic Planetarium Society and SoloTogether (the organization of New England historical performers).
Meals:
What’s StarFest without great food? [Dare we call our event StarFeast?] We think you’ll be excited about our menu. Please pay attention if you want the vegetarian option for any specific meal in case you don’t want the main dish.
Friday Dinner
- Pulled pork sandwiches
- Vegetarian- Black Bean burgers
- Beans, Mac and Cheese, Salad with dressings, Grilled Veggies, Sweet and Unsweetened Tea and Lemonade.
Saturday Breakfast
- Biscuits & Gravy
- Potato Casserole, Eggs, Bacon, Fruit Trays, Juice and Coffee
Saturday Lunch
- Delicious deli sandwiches on freshly baked authentic New York sesame, whole wheat and plain bagels with Boar’s Head brand roast beef, turkey, or black forest ham. All with cheese, tomatoes and lettuce.
- Vegetarian: vegetable cream cheese spread on a bagel, topped with thinly sliced cucumbers lettuce and tomato
- Antipasto Salad, Garden Salad, Special Cupcakes from Little Cake Bakery (Blackberry, Apple Crunch & Red Velvet), Sweet & Unsweet Iced Tea
Saturday Dinner
- Chicken Penne Alfredo
- Vegetarian – Vegetable Lasagne with Marinara Sauce
- Salad with dressings, Garlic bread, Cookies and Brownies, Sweet and Unsweetened Tea
Sunday Breakfast
- Chicken and Waffles
- Sausage, Fruit Trays, Pastry Trays, Juice and Coffee
Bays Mountain Park Public Programs & Activities
As always, the schedule allows for many opportunities to enjoy other park programming. Note, with your StarFest badge, you can receive free, on November 7-9, 2025, entrance to the Park and passes to planetarium shows, nature programs and barge rides. Yes, you need your stinkin’ badge! Check the Park’s scheduling calendar for details.
Barge rides are a 45 min. tour of the lake and its natural habitats. Nature programs are different for each time provided, so check the Park’s scheduling calendar for details.
The Bays Mountain Astronomy Club and Bays Mountain Park Association look forward to seeing you for StarFest 2025!
For Questions:
- About StarFest registration, activities, swap shop, etc. – Greg Penner; StarFest 2025 Chairman
- Related to Bays Mountain Park & Planetarium – Jason Dorfman; Assistant Planetarium Director; 423-245-3176
Pets
The park allows dogs, but they must be on a leash at all times, cleaned up after and not allowed near any of the animal habitats nor in any of the buildings.