The official start of summer is this Friday, and to celebrate the longest day of the year, Dallas County Conservation is hosting a Solstice party.

The event is called “Solstice, Stars, and Sleepout,” and Outreach Coordinator Ken Keffer says participants will get an opportunity to experience a popular Conservation area in a new way. “Generally, we do not allow camping at the Hanging Rock area in Redfield, but for Summer Solstice we’re going to do a special event: we’re going to have a campout that night! We’re going to do campfires, nice Solstice Star Party watching the stars come out, and then up early to watch the Solstice sunrise by about 4:30 (a.m.). So it’ll be an early morning, you know, get those longest days of the year and really embrace the Summer Solstice this year!”

Keffer points out that attendees will need to bring their own tents, gear, and food. RVs and campers will not be allowed. Registration is required for the event and it’s weather dependent, but there’s no cost to attend. The program will start at 7 p.m. Friday, and will wrap up by 8 a.m. Saturday. For more information or to sign up, stop in or call Forest Park Museum at 515-465-3577.