As the Earth crosses paths with comet debris next week, state parks in Michigan are inviting the public to bring a blanket and spend the night under the stars Aug. 8-15 to enjoy the show.

Participating state parks, including Warren Dunes State Park in Berrien County, will stay open late and offer “Meteors & S’mores” events throughout the week for campers and day visitors to view the annual Perseid meteor shower.

Warren Dunes’ event begins at 9 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15. Meet at the beach day-use area.

Select events will include additional offerings, including astronomy presentations, free movies and twilight yoga.

Many programs start in the late evening, but the best viewing time for meteors is at the darkest time of the night, after midnight. Visitors are encouraged to bring blankets, seating, bug spray and water or other beverages to enjoy a night of stargazing.

According to EarthSky.com, in the Northern Hemisphere the annual August Perseid meteor shower probably ranks as the all-time favorite meteor shower of the year. On a dark, moonless night, people often see 50 or more meteors per hour from northerly latitudes, and from southerly latitudes in the Southern Hemisphere, perhaps about one-third that many meteors.

The meteor shower occurs when Earth crosses the orbital path of Comet Swift-Tuttle every year from around July 17 to Aug. 24.

Debris left behind by the comet slam into the Earth’s atmosphere, creating the light show that is the Perseid meteor shower.

For more information about Meteors & S’mores events at Michigan state parks and recreation areas, check the event listings at www.michigan.gov/gogetoutdoors.

There is no charge to attend Meteors & S’mores, but a Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry to any Michigan state park.