Hayes – Friends of Machicomoco State Park announces their Astronomy and Music events at Machicomoco State Park for Spring 2026.
The Friends Group is once again partnering with the NASA Skywatchers to host the 3rd Astronomy in the Park event at Machicomoco on Saturday, April 25, from 8 to 10 p.m. They say you can view the night sky with the amateur astronomy group based out of NASA Langley.
The Friends Group says The Skywatchers will have telescopes on hand to view the Moon, Uranus, and other distant night sky objects. Youth in attendance will have a chance to participate in a contest to win a telescope to take home at a later date.
In partnership with Virginia State Parks, Friends of Machicomoco State Park is hosting Music in the Park on Saturday, May 30, from 5 to 8 p.m. This open-air performance will feature Hunter Owens and Three Creeks Down from Mathews. Influenced by artists like John Denver, James Taylor, and Jim Croce, Hunter’s baritone voice and acoustic style reflect a love for honest, heartfelt songwriting. Three Creeks Down features brothers Hunter and Hayden Owens, joined by their friend, Tristan Barnes. This new folk, country, soft rock, and jazz trio blends guitar, piano, bass, and drums with honest lyrics. Friends of Machicomoco State Park advise bringing a picnic dinner and lawn chairs for this family-friendly event that will end just before sunset.
In addition, the non-profit group will be set up with a booth during the park’s Earth Day event on Saturday, April 18, running from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Friends Group will have educational displays and children’s activities. Discounted merchandise such as T-shirts and books will be available for a donation. Numerous organizations and tribes are expected to be represented at the event along with several food trucks. Friends of Machicomoco State Park say to bring the whole family in for a fun day outdoors at the park.
All Friends of Machicomoco State Park say hosted events are free to park visitors. These events are held at the park’s interpretive area. A $5 vehicle park entrance fee applies, and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.
Founded in 2022, Friends of Machicomoco State Park is a volunteer-led non-profit organization that helps to support the park’s mission by enhancing visitor experience through a variety of programs and projects.
