FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
RED ROCK CANYON HOSTS EARTH NIGHT STAR PARTY,
APRIL 22 FROM 7 – 9:30 PM
Save Red Rock and Brett Torino Foundation, in partnership with BLM and Dark Sky International host an educational stargazing event in celebration of Earth Day
Las Vegas, NV (March 13, 2025) – Stargazers and nature-lovers unite! Red Rock Canyon will host a free, public, educational “star party” on Tuesday, April 22 from 7- 9:30 pm in its outdoor amphitheater, in honor of Earth Day and in service of its application as an Urban Night Sky Place.
The Earth Night Star Party will be the first in a series of public outreach events designed to promote and protect dark sky communities. Made possible by Save Red Rock’s fundraising campaign, and bolstered by a generous donation from The Brett Torino Foundation, a brand new, state-of-the art telescope will be unveiled at the event, to reside exclusively at Red Rock Canyon.
In addition to the unveiling of the new telescope, The Earth Night Star Party will feature a presentation from Dark Sky International and a guided “star tour.” The Las Vegas Astronomical Society and Friends of Red Rock will also be present to contribute amenities. Doors will open at 6 pm and guests are encouraged to RSVP at SaveRedRock.com.
“As stewards of our natural world, the Brett Torino Foundation remains steadfast in our commitment to preserving the landscapes that shape our region—especially areas as precious as Lovell Canyon and Red Rock Canyon,” said Brett Torino, founder of the Brett Torino Foundation. “This Earth Day, we not only honor the land but also the vital night skies that are an irreplaceable part of our natural heritage. These dark skies offer a breathtaking view of the stars, a resource that is often overlooked but essential to the well-being of our planet. It is our responsibility to safeguard these fragile ecosystems and the clear skies above, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy and cherish their beauty.”
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is pursuing designation as an Urban Night Sky Place as defined by the International Dark Sky Place Program (IDSP). This designation preserves and protects our view of the night sky while reducing the negative impacts of light
pollution on nocturnal wildlife. Additionally, Dark Sky Places benefit from increased visitation and local economic activity in the communities in which they are located.
“This is the first in a series of exciting and educational night-sky events we plan to host,” says Save Red Rock’s co-founder Pauline van Betten. “We’re thrilled to share our love of nature and our dedication to preserving it with this community and look forward to the yearslong pursuit of protecting it with Urban Night Sky designation.”
To learn more about the project or to donate, visit saveredrock.com/dark-sky.
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About Save Red Rock
Save Red Rock is a 501c3 organization with a mission to preserve and protect the safety, serenity, and sustainability of Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area, the nation’s first and most-visited NCA. For more than 20 years, Save Red Rock has been a devoted steward of the conservation area, with its programs aiming to keep Red Rock safe, healthy and rural. For more information or to donate to the cause, visit www.saveredrock.com.
About the Brett Torino Foundation (BTF)
The Brett Torino Foundation (BTF) has long been dedicated to the conservation and preservation of the natural world, working tirelessly to protect vulnerable landscapes and ecosystems. A significant part of this commitment is the Foundation’s role in cleaning up Lovell Canyon, an area near and dear to BTF. For years, BTF has worked hand-in-hand with local conservation organizations to restore and maintain the land, ensuring it remains a safe, vibrant environment for future generations. As a steadfast supporter of the Save Red Rock organization, BTF continues to advocate for the preservation of Nevada’s most cherished natural areas. In addition to environmental conservation, BTF is dedicated to community involvement, education, and supporting vulnerable populations through partnerships with Nevada Childhood Cancer Foundation, Sunshine Nevada, Save Red Rock, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Foundation, and the Clark County School District. For over 25 years, BTF has utilized Torino Ranch in Lovell Canyon as a sanctuary for young people and mentors, hosting transformative summer camps and programs that support children and adults with critical illnesses, developmental challenges, and those in need of respite. These initiatives provide a safe environment that promotes growth, education, and lasting memories, while also advancing community development and educational opportunities.
CONTACT:
Save Red Rock | Michelle St.Angelo, Executive Director | [email protected]
Brett Torino Foundation | Celena Haas-Stacey | [email protected]
