Due to the expected impact of the winter storm, all Virginia State Park overnight facilities will be closed from Friday, Jan. 23 through Tuesday, Jan. 27. This decision is based on the forecast for unsafe conditions and potential power outages. For updates click here.

Stargazing: Orionids Meteor Shower

Location of Fairy Stone State Park in Virginia

Where

Fairy Stone State Park, 967 Fairystone Lake Dr., Stuart, VA 24171.
Upper Beach Parking Area

When

Oct. 21, 2025. 8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

The Orionids meteor shower is an average meteor shower producing up to 20 meteors per hour at its peak. It is produced by dust grains left behind by comet Halley, which has been observed since ancient times. It peaks in 2025 on the night of October 21st and morning of the 22nd. This is an excellent year for the Orionids. The moon will be absent all night long, leaving dark skies for what should be an excellent show. Meteors will radiate from the constellation Orion but can appear anywhere in the sky.

Guests are welcome to join a ranger in the Upper Beach Parking Area to view the night sky. We recommend chairs or blankets for stargazing during this event because of the wide-open space.

This event may be cancelled if the forecast indicates overcast skies or rain.

We strive to make our programming and special event opportunities accessible and inclusive to all. If you have any concern, please reach out to our front office to speak with a ranger or contact us through the park email address. We will attempt to accommodate all individuals or families for their unique circumstances and can do so best with advanced communication.

Other details

Standard parking or admission fee applies: Yes.
Extra fee: No.
Registration required: No.
Children welcome: Yes.
Phone: 276-930-2424
Email Address: FairyStone@dcr.virginia.gov