Abstract

Rising light pollution has intensified interest in dark skies, driving growth in dark-sky places worldwide and increasing demand for astrotourism through dark sky events (DSEs). DSEs offer diverse immersive experiences, including stargazing, astrophotography, storytelling, and wildlife walks. However, existing research has focused on environmental protection, policy, and the astronomical value of nightscapes. While there is evidence that spending time in nature, particularly in darkness, may benefit wellbeing, the specific role of DSEs in producing these benefits remains unclear. This study aims to examine how organised DSEs contribute to participants’ multidimensional wellbeing by analysing user-generated TripAdvisor reviews from three venues within Northumberland International Dark Sky Park. Reflexive thematic analysis was applied to 1,700 reviews, and four themes emerged: awe and transformation; learning, cognitive expansion and self-efficacy; shared connection and family bonding; and immersion, embodiment and multi-sensory engagement. The findings conceptualise immersive DSEs as wellbeing-producing environments, bridging astrotourism, events, and wellbeing research.