Brenna Marsicek, Lights Out Wisconsin and Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance, 608-255-2473
International Dark Sky Week is for Wisconsin birds, fireflies, and people
Madison, April 9, 2026 — The Lights Out Wisconsin coalition joins in the celebration of International Dark Sky Week (April 13-20, 2026). This global celebration of the wonder and importance of the night raises awareness about the harmful effects of light pollution. It also calls attention to the darkness needed to sustain critical wildlife ecosystems.
“Lights Out Wisconsin works to reduce light pollution and promote healthy nights throughout Wisconsin. We are made up of bird, insect, astronomy, and energy conservation enthusiasts who want to be able to enjoy the night skies and support a healthy environment,” said Brenna Marsicek, director of Outreach, Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance.
Light pollution affects wildlife, human health, and our ability to experience stargazing, firefly watching in the night sky. Hundreds of bird species migrate in the darkness of night to reach their summer breeding places here in Wisconsin and beyond.
“Skies lit by lights can cause birds to become disoriented or drawn to bright cities crashing into windows or collapsing due to exhaustion,” says Alicia King, executive director of Wisconsin Society for Ornithology.
By turning off unnecessary lights, using timers, motion sensors, and using light fixtures that point lights down, individuals and businesses can ensure light is going where it is intended and not wasted.
These simple, effective actions can help restore natural darkness to the skies in Wisconsin to protect birds in migration, fireflies in mating season, and enable people throughout the state to enjoy benefits of the night sky.
Visit Lights Out Wisconsin for more information about reducing harmful night lights and enjoying the night sky.
For more about International Dark Sky Week visit DarkSky International.
###
Lights Out Wisconsin is a collaboration of organizations and individuals working to reverse light pollution in Wisconsin. Lights Out Wisconsin unites communities to take action by minimizing nighttime light pollution when dark skies matter most for wildlife and people. Our coalition of partners advances this goal through outreach and advocacy promoting low-impact lighting including downward facing lights, timers, dimmers, 2200 Kelvin or lower color temperature lighting, and turning off non-essential lights when not in use.
