Celebrate Dark Sky Week – April 13-20 – at Battle Point Observatory & Throughout Oly Peninsula. Plus, Earth Day Market at Rolling Bay Saturday

Now that Artimis II has successfully circumnavigated the moon and splashed down safely in the Pacific, the Battle Point Observatory (BPO) and Dark Sky Olympic Peninsula (DS-OP), invites the community to participate in Dark Sky Week, from April 13-20. One of the highlights is a free movie night at the historic Lynwood Theatre at 6:45 p.m. on Tuesday April 14 to officially kick-off International Dark Sky week, a global celebration of the night.

According to BPO officials, Dark Sky conservation benefits wildlife and their habitats, reduces health and safety risks to humans, saves energy and reduces costs.  For instance, light pollution has devastating effects on migrating birds, native plants, and pollinators. Come learn how small changes in your own backyard can make a difference. Short movies will include Defending the Dark; Know the Night; The Fight to Protect Natural Darkness; and The Movement to Save Our Night Skies. A brief discussion panel will follow.

Deborah Milton, BPO Artist in Residence, notes: “It’s estimated that 80% of humans in the USA can no longer see the Milky Way without technological assistance. Scientific research now affirms far-ranging negative impacts of light pollution… For our entire human history, the night sky has inspired curiosity and imagination that has led to developments in both the sciences and the arts, guided our navigational skills and planting/harvesting practices, and grounded us in myth, religion, community celebration and spirituality. Losing the dark threatens the very essence of being human.”

During the month of April, BPO officials urge the public to “go dark” to explore the night, protect dark skies, and reduce energy waste. Learn how making small changes on a community level can make a meaningful difference. Visit the Observatory for more Dark Sky events, including special Planetarium shows, Paint Night, and book study group. Full info available at:
https://bpastro.org/dark-sky-events/

Dark Sky Movie Night will be from 6:45 pm – 8:10 pm, on Tuesday April 14 at the historic Lynwood Theatre on Bainbridge Island. All ages welcome! Reserve your free tickets at https://givebutter.com/darkskymovie2026.

West Sound Wildlife Shelter’s Earth Day Market Saturday April 18 at Rolling Bay

Celebrate spring at the Rolling Bay Earth Day Market on April 18, 10 a.m.–4 p.m., the first of three markets in 2026 season and a community favorite. Each market brings together vintage dealers, makers, artists, and collectors of cool finds—alongside music, connection, and room to wander. It will be filled with local makers, sustainable goods, and creative finds.

Not to be missed, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. WSWS’ Raptor Rhapsody, featuring live education birds up close. Bring friends, shop thoughtfully, and connect with your community. Co-sponsored by Wild Bird Mercantile, West Sound Wildlife Shelter, and Rolling Bay Presbyterian Church.

Where: 11042 Sunrise Drive NE, Bainbridge Island. Follow along @rollingbaymarkets. More information at: https://westsoundwildlife.org/rollingbaymarekts/

Note to readers: You can now comment on stories in The Island Wanderer. See below. Check out a Slew of Earth Month activities on tap in April by visiting: Earth Month Bainbridge Island – Sustainable Bainbridge

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