A night of classical and contemporary music, exploring the night sky and the beautiful badlands.

This event takes place August 22, 2026 at 8:30 pm as part of annual night sky festival "Astronomical Extravaganza".

Join us for a transcendent evening of timeless musical beauty meeting the infinite wonder of the cosmos. Set against a backdrop of ancient badlands, this classical concert offers a unique sensory connection to the universe through sight, sound, and the breathtaking night sky-scapes of Dinosaur Provincial Park.

The Music

This year, we are proud to feature the Bel Canto Strings Trio, a premier string ensemble that has been a cornerstone of the Calgary artistic scene for over 20 years. Known for their technical brilliance and adaptability to the most unique performance settings, the trio will create a stunning soundscape to echo the vastness of the night sky.

• Radek Sokulski (Violin): An accomplished violinist and composer who helped organize Bel Canto Strings. With experience in the Calgary Philharmonic and Red Deer Symphony, Radek brings a wealth of expertise and beautifully crafted arrangements to the ensemble.
• Kristof Sokulski (Violin): A versatile musician well-acquainted with the Calgary music scene. Kristof’s background in leading gypsy jazz quartets allows him to bring a flourish of improvisational talent to the group’s classical repertoire.
• Takumi Rodgers (Cello): A rising star and winner of the 2025 RBC Concerto Competition. Performing on a rebuilt English cello, Takumi’s passionate performance style has been showcased with the CPO and across Calgary’s most prestigious stages.

The Stargazing

While the cosmic harmonies unfold, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to explore the night sky through powerful telescopes. Experts from the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada will be your guides, pointing out distant galaxies and swirling nebulae as the music of the strings guides your senses.

Important Program Details

Arrival: Please arrive at the Visitor Centre 10 to 15 minutes before the program begins. This allows time for check-in, last-minute washroom visits, and filling water bottles.

Footwear: For your safety and comfort, all participants must wear closed-toe and closed-heel shoes suitable for hiking. Sandals, flip-flops, and Crocs are not permitted.

Dress Warm: This is an evening outdoor program, so please dress appropriately for a cold evening.

Seating: Bring your own comfy lawn chairs or blankets to sit on and enjoy the performance while stargazing. Limited seating will be provided by our park if you are unable to bring your own.

Headlamps: We recommend bringing a headlamp. We will provide a red film for your headlamp so the light doesn't disrupt the star viewing experience.

Restrictions:
Children under 14 are not permitted on this program.
Pets are not permitted.
Smoking is prohibited.

Inclement Weather: This program runs rain or shine. In the event of poor weather, the program will proceed indoors at the scheduled time, and participants will receive a partial refund.

Distance: 0.57 km, approximately 100 steps.

Accessibility: This program is not mobility aid accessible. 

Amenities: Public washrooms and water bottle refilling station located at Visitor Centre where tour begins.

Directions: Tour starts at the Visitor Centre. Parking is available in the Service Centre Parking lot (a 2-5 minute walk from the Visitor Centre.)

Program Date(s)