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Julian StarFest 2023

August 11-12, 2023  Menghini Winery, Julian, CA

Brought to you by the San Diego Astronomy Association (SDAA) and the town of Julian

StarFest 2023 Latest News!

The SDAA Julian StarFest is finally back!

On August 11-13, 2023, the Julian StarFest will once again grace the dark skies of the Menghini Winery in Julian. After a long two-year pandemic, we are once again looking forward to the return of this annual event. The JSF Committee is already working hard to ensure the 2023 festival includes many of the same activities as in the past.

• Free public star party on Saturday night, August 12
• Camping availability for tent and RV campers from August 11 and 12
• Exhibits by major telescope and accessory vendors
• Food and beverage vendors
• Astronomy games and crafts for kids
• Raffle for donated astronomy equipment on Saturday
• Optional behind the scenes tour of the world-famous Mount Laguna Observatory on Saturday

Final Program

JSF is a great opportunity for members and non-members alike to share in the joy of astronomy. There will be plenty of activities for families and all age groups. In addition, JSF attendees will also be able to visit the nearby town of Julian, well known for its apple pies, gifts, specialty shops and hospitality.

An optional behind the scenes tour of the world-famous Mount Laguna Observatory is also available to a limited number of people.

In addition to the huge public outreach, all proceeds from the event are used to help fund the San Diego Astronomy Association’s ongoing community educational efforts.

Special thanks to the Menghini Winery for donating the venue.  Special thanks also to the SDAA Board, JSF Committee, Volunteers, Sponsors, and Exhibitors.  We hope to make the 2023 Julian StarFest the best event ever. See you in Julian!

For additional information, please contact us at info@julianstarfest.com


Here is a picture of M8, the Lagoon Nebula, taken on Thursday night at the 2019 JSF. 3 hours total exposure, with ten-minute RGB subs.  Telescope is an 8-inch PTO RC and the camera is a ZWO ASI 1600.  Processing was with PixInsight, Photoshop and Images Plus. – Scott Dixon.

Pictures from Julian Starfest 2019:



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Julian Weather

Please check Weather.com and the Western Regional Climate Center for historical weather trends in Julian.


Crowd at StarFest
Entrance to Winery

Drone's eye view of Julian StarFest 2014 (YouTube Video)