Full moon fun on the water and under the stars in county parks
According to the Old Farmer’s Almanac, the people of several northeastern Indian nations referred to August’s full moon as the Sturgeon Moon because they believed it was the night when the giant sturgeon of the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain could be most easily caught.
The ecliptic longitudes of the sun and moon will differ by 180 degrees, making the moon appear to be at its fullest state at exactly 7:56 a.m. Sunday. Allegheny County, however, is wasting no time celebrating the last full moon of summer with four outdoor recreational activities held Saturday. Full moon kayak tour With a bright orb reflecting off calm black waters, expert kayakers from L.L. Bean offer a short paddling demonstration before leading a waterway tour on North Park Lake and sharing details of the region’s history and landscape. Meets in “the pond” at Babcock Boulevard and Pearce Mill Road in North Park. No experience necessary; equipment provided. $59. 7-10 p.m. Saturday. Twilight picnic An evening bite and beverage, a little night music under the moon and stars, and a private performance by Lucie Arnaz, a Broadway and film actor who began her career on “The Lucy Show” opposite her mother, Lucille Ball. It’s a fitting way to raise money for the Allegheny County Parks Foundation, the nonprofit organization that works with the county to improve, preserve and restore its nine parks. The full moon fundraiser will be held at Hartwood Acres Mansion near Dorseyville. Tickets start at $250. 7-11 p.m. Saturday. Night glow paddle After a quick Paddle Boarding 101 lesson, participants mount boards rigged with LED light bars that cast a greenish glow on underwater structure and marine life, then head off across North Park Lake. No experience necessary; equipment provided. $59. 710 p.m. Saturday. Full moon floating yoga Yoga gurus schooled in Hindu philosophies during the first half
of the first millennium never did it quite like this. Practice the sacred Chandra Namaskara, or moon salutations, while balanced on a stand-up paddleboard floating in North Park’s outdoor pool under the watchful eye of the full moon. $50. 8-10 pm. Saturday.
For details and registration, visit alleghenycounty.