"The tradition of cultural astronomy continues today. When we point out the North Star to our grandchildren or take a scout troop out to sleep beneath the stars, we are keeping alive this natural affinity humans have for looking beyond our planet. This is the way of people; we only need a little darkness and a starry sky to gaze upon."

• From The Night Skies of the NPS: A Story Map (nps.gov)

"He gave me my strength and he set the North Star in the heavens."

• Harriet Tubman

On Saturday, Oct. 22, from 6 to 8 p.m. stargazers and others, young and old, are invited to partake in a special Park After Dark program in Dorchester County's historic backyard, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park.

Maryland State Park rangers will lead the free, family-friendly event, which will include an array of fun, educational and creative activities.

Taking place "after hours" but before bedtime at the park's outdoor pavilion, visitors will get to see for themselves just how important the night sky was for Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad.

There will also be a fire to keep the evening chill at bay, but also to gather round to make s'mores and hear stories (just a bit spooky). Kids can also create cosmic crafts.

Park manager Dana Paterra asks that those planning to attend please register online, in order to help ensure that enough supplies are on hand for all, at docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdO9hD4_xKKdfQVGlqBoxk0GrshmfyCkXJPqfKcvuL6YIt51w/viewform.

Please bring your own blanket or chair, she added.

For more information, call the park office at 410-221-2290.