East Coast Star Party
November 5–8, 2026 · Dark skies, field camping, food, telescopes and a community that has been doing this for decades.
ECSP Weather
Check back closer to the Star Party!
The ECSP forecast will appear here when November 5–8, 2026 enters the National Weather Service forecast window.
Welcome to ECSP
The East Coast Star Party was formerly hosted by BBAA member Kent Blackwell at Hampton Lodge Campground in Coinjock, North Carolina. When that campground was sold, BBAA members found a new home at Chippokes State Park in Surry, Virginia. The party still runs from Thursday through Sunday morning, with long nights on the observing field and the traditions that have grown around it.
Fall 2026 Schedule
Thursday, November 5
All-night observing · Observing field
Free coffee and hot dogs.
2:00 PM — Registration tent opens · Registration tent
Attendees begin arriving.
Friday, November 6
All-night observing · Observing field
Coffee and hot dogs.
4:30 PM–5:30 PM — Spaghetti dinner · Conference Center
6:00 PM–9:00 PM — Public observing night
If clouds or rain prevent observing, an astronomy presentation will be offered at the Chippokes conference center; check the registration tent for details.
Saturday, November 7
All-night observing · Observing field
Coffee and hot dogs.
5:00 PM — Cookout and potluck · Observing field
Hamburgers, hot dogs and sodas provided; attendees are welcome to add dishes.
5:30 PM — BBAA Club Meeting
6:30 PM — Raffle drawing
Saturday night after the cookout.
Sunday, November 8
11:00 AM — ECSP ends
Friday Public Star Party
Park visitors are invited to join BBAA and ECSP observers Friday evening. Look through telescopes, ask questions, and explore the night sky with experienced amateur astronomers. Check the schedule above for the current public-observing time.