Halifax County, Virginia, is a great place to visit — especially if you’re a stargazer, a budding astronomer, or you just love the experience of a wild place at night. One of just a handful of official Dark Sky Place locations in the state, stargazing at local Staunton River State Park is a truly unique experience. While all certified Dark Sky Places around the world are conserved as starry sky destinations, not all of them host a bi-annual Star Party. When we say, “The stars shine brighter in Halifax County,” we don’t mean it as a metaphor; it’s literally true.

You can bet we know how to celebrate it.

Fall 2025 Staunton River Star Party with CHAOS

Every spring and autumn, CHAOS (Chapel Hill Astronomical and Observational Society) sponsors the Staunton River Star Party at Staunton River State Park. A week-long astronomy festival that draws astronomers and stargazers from all over the region and world, attendees camp out on or find their way to the Observation Field each night to settle into the magic of the night sky, whether with the naked eye or from behind the eyepiece of a telescope. One of the remarkable realities of this twice-yearly event is that the astronomers who spend the whole week gazing up into the sky can’t wait to indulge newcomers, children, and the didn’t-love-science-in-school crowd during the public access night. They serve as hosts and teachers for an unforgettable evening of peering through glass and mirrors into time itself.  

To register for the event, email stauntonriverstarparty@gmail.com. Registered attendees have the run of the place from 12 p.m. October 20, 2025, until 12 p.m. October 26, 2025, but the Observation Field is also open to members of the public from 8-10 p.m. October 24 — and that experience is worth building a trip around.

The best part? It’s not just the nighttime that’s special. Here’s a look at some of the ways you can spend your non-stargazing time when you visit Halifax County for the Staunton River Star Party.

Fall Star Party 2025 Itinerary: Day 1

While just over 33,000 people call Halifax County, Virginia, home year-round, we have ample amenities and entertainment for guests. Here’s a look at where to stay, what to do, and where to eat when you come in for the Fall Star Party.

Lodging at Historic Berry Hill

Photo credit: Berry Hill.

First things first: Check-in at Berry Hill, the historic hotel, conference center, and resort located in the heart of a 703-acre forest in South Boston, Virginia. A National Historic Landmark, Berry Hill first welcomed guests back in 1728. Unload your things, take a dip in the relaxing indoor pool, explore the beautiful grounds, grab a catnap on your comfortable bed, then head back into town for some pre-Star Party fun.

Downtown South Boston, VA Shopping

Photo credit: The Mercantile & Vintage Market.

Do you love items from times gone by? How about local handmade goods and souvenirs? We’ve got a good variety in these downtown South Boston and Halifax shops:

• The Mercantile & Vintage Market: Modeled after an old-timey general store, this shop has unique gifts and plenty of vintage finds.
• Peddlers Market: The Peddlers Market has a little something for everyone — coffee, knives, boxed greeting cards, diner nuts, cast iron, kitchen wares, jewelry, and plenty more.
• Toots Creek Antique Mall: Whether you’re in the mood for antique furniture, home decor, vintage dining sets, old toys, or early 20th century canning jars, you’ll find it here.
• Halifax Visitors Center: Learn about the history and present of Halifax County while shopping for local handmade items, wine, souvenirs, local honey and more.

Don’t see something that tickles your fancy? Don’t worry! This list is just a sampling of the shopping available in Halifax County.

Where to Eat Before the Star Party

Photo credit: Molasses Grill.

After you’ve stashed your purchases in your vehicle, stop by one of our locally famous restaurants for a bit to eat.

• Grab a bite from Molasses Grill, where both Southern and Eastern Seaboard fare are featured. Named one of the “30 places to eat in Virginia before you die,” Molasses Grill is the place to go. If you’re in the mood for seafood, head here!
• Fantastic Italian food awaits you at Viny’s Italian Grill. Enjoy pizzas, baked pastas, Italian subs, and more — with outdoor dining available.
• Historic Darby’s Tavern, located at the Berry Hill Resort, caters to those looking for a great pub experience. The menu offers Southern-inspired classic American pub fare.
• Love homemade desserts, healthy lunch options, and home-style breakfast? You can’t go wrong with Packhouse Cafe in downtown Halifax..
• Craving a taco or quesadilla? Los Amigos’ menu includes traditional Mexican-American fare plus some Tex-Mex classics.
• If you’re in the mood for Spanish tapas, Halifax County can deliver. Head to Paco’s Restaurant & Lounge for everything from paella and grilled octopus to salads and tortilla española.

The Star Party

Now that you’ve checked into your hotel, done some shopping, and filled your belly with good food, it’s time to head out to the Staunton River State Park Visitor Center. Be sure to bring your blanket or camp chair when you load onto the free bus to head to the Observation Field. Spend two hours in one of the darkest places in Virginia, hobnobbing with astronomers, marveling at the sky, and making friends with telescope owners as you stare deep into our galaxy’s wonders.

Photo credit: Steve Andrews.

Grab the bus back to your vehicle at the designated parking lot at 10 p.m., then make the short drive back to Berry Hill where a restful night of sleep awaits.

Fall Star Party 2025 Itinerary: Day 2

After a good night’s sleep at Berry Hill, there’s still plenty of time to get to know and experience Halifax County. Visit the pool again or take a cool morning hike around the grounds. After you check out, grab brunch at Southern Plenty, an eclectic restaurant that features locally grown food with housemade desserts, specialty coffee drinks, excellent quiche, and locally sourced teas.

Photo credit: Southern Plenty.

Don’t head home just yet! Explore the SoVa Blueway on canoe, paddle board, or kayak, or — if you brought your fishing pole — spend some time casting along the banks of the Staunton River. You just might pull in a prized striped bass, walleye, or white bass!

Photo credit: SoVA Blueway.

Head home full of wonder at the world itself and the countless worlds above and around you.

What are you waiting for? Plan your visit now to Halifax County to discover how the stars shine brighter.