“Our skies are not just a backdrop; they are part of our heritage, our science, and our spirit,” said Mayor Candy Cargill of Blanco, who welcomed participants at the conference’s opening. “They inspire artists, guide farmers, and spark curiosity in the hearts of children. Preserving them is a responsibility we proudly share with all of you here today.” The Hill Country Dark Sky Conference returned this year after a long hiatus. The 2025 event—hosted in Blanco by the City of Blanco and in partnership with the Blanco Chamber of Commerce, Blanco Country Friends of the Night Sky, and Hill County Alliance—marked the first conference held since 2019 and reignited an annual tradition focused on preserving the region’s iconic night skies.