Whether you’re an amateur astronomer or a casual stargazer like me, this summer’s celestial events are ones you don’t want to miss.

From a pair of back-to-back showers in late July to the dazzling Perseids in mid-August, the night sky has a full lineup on the way.

(MORE: A solar eclipse is happening soon — head to these two states)

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Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of this summer’s spectacular shows.

A late-July double shower

On July 30, a double shower will be a skywatcher's delight as the Southern Delta Aquariids and the Alpha Capricornids will both be at their peak.

The Southern Delta Aquariids are active from July 19 through Aug. 13 with maximum activity occurring on July 30. They are typically a strong shower best seen from the southern tropics, but may be visible from some southern states. If you are north of the equator, they will be located low in the southern sky. 

The Alpha Capricornids are active from July 12 through Aug. 12, also peaking on July 30 this year. This means a double-peak shower on July 30. 

The Capricornids are famous for their slow, bright, colorful fireballs that can outshine even the brightest of stars. There are fewer meteors per hour during this shower, but their luminous nature makes up for it.

Unfortunately, there is a full moon on July 29 that will light up the night sky during this double shower. So the Capricornids are the best bet for successful sighting due to their brightness, allowing them to shine through the glare of the Moon.

A new moon Perseids shower

The main star of the show will be the Perseids shower. They are one of the most popular meteor showers in the Northern Hemisphere, and for good reason.

The meteors are colorful and bright and often leave persistent trains. They are rich and steady and you can spot nearly 50 meteors an hour during its peak. Some skywatchers have even reported seeing up to 90 meteors an hour. 

The Perseids are active from July 17 to Aug. 24, and this year they peak on Aug. 12-13. They can be visible from the entire U.S.

This shower will be extra special, as the new moon falls directly during the Perseids peak. This is the optimal time for viewing this shower because there will be no moonlight to hide the meteors. It should be a truly special sight to see. 

If you want to go check them out, head out anytime after midnight, but the prime viewing time is during the last dark hour before dawn. 

Look high into the northeastern sky, on the northern tip of the Perseus constellation to spot the meteors radiating.  

Tips for first-time stargazers 

For the best chance of viewing meteor showers, head to a safe, dark area away from light pollution. 

You don’t need any telescopes or binoculars, just a comfortable place to sit and relax.

Prepare to spend a long time gazing at the sky. You should give yourself about 30 minutes for your eyes to adapt to the dark.

The best time for most meteor showers is right before dawn, when the sky is at its darkest.

So sit back, relax and enjoy the show! Here’s to clear skies!

Miriam Guthrie is an associate meteorologist with weather.com who graduated from Georgia Tech with her undergrad and graduate degrees in Earth & Atmospheric Sciences.