While there are plenty of recreational activities in the waters of Virginia to cool you off during the hot days of summer, we have an even better alternative; enjoy the Great Outdoors at night to skip the blistering heat that often comes with the sunniest days. Make plans to attend these eight evening activities this summer and discover what makes Virginia’s outdoors so unforgettable.
Night Skies—Luray 
Photo Credit: Greg Redfern
Held in the Big Meadows area of Shenandoah National Park, Night Skies draws amateur astronomers and romance-seeking stargazers to catch a glimpse of the stunning starlight. Pack a blanket, chair, and a flashlight for some of the most uninterrupted views of Virginia’s night skies. For an overnight trip, book a room at Big Meadows Lodge or bring along your camping gear and stay at the nearby Lewis Mountain Campgrounds. A special presentation of the Night Skies Festival will be held August 9-11, with constellation tours, solar scope viewings, telescope viewings and hands-on activities. This monthly event is dependent on the weather, and will be rescheduled in the case of rain or heavy clouds.
Adventure Kayak Tours—Chesapeake
Adventure Kayak Tours offers night paddling trip by reservation request, creating a custom evening out on the water for your group. In addition to a “Paddle Under the Stars” package, they also have a “Full Moon Paddle” trip to correspond with the lunar calendar. Call to inquire about dates and availability for your starlit paddling excursion.
Mountain2Island Paddleboarding—Hiwassee
The Once in a Full Moon Paddle Trips with Mountain2Island Paddleboarding on Smith Mountain Lake includes the paddleboard rental, glow lights, and a guided tour of the lake for just $39 per person. The tour starts at around 10pm and lasts for about an hour and a half as you’ll traverse the quiet moonlit waters. This paddling adventure is best suited for intermediate level paddleboarders ages 16 and up, and reservations are required in advance as the tour books up quickly.
Starry Nights at Veritas Vineyards & Winery—Afton
Photo Credit: Kate Magee Joyce
Veritas Vineyards & Winery hosts Starry Nights, a summer outdoor concert series held on the lush lawns of the vineyard. Bring picnic blankets or lawn chairs to relax under the stars and sip on fine wines, all while enjoying live music performances. Call in advance to reserve your spot at the vineyard for these live concerts under the stars.
Twilight Polo at Great Meadow—The Plains
Saturday evenings, visit Great Meadow for their Twilight Polo series, presented by Blue Valley Winery & Vineyards. Pack a picnic basket and blanket, then nab a seat on the grass or reserve a railside box, which fits up to six people. Watch polo, drink wine, and dance the night away. Gates open at 5:30 PM, the first match starts at 6:00 PM with dancing in the pavilion following the final feature match at 8:00 PM.
What are your favorite events under the stars to attend in Virginia? Tell us below!
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