On July 17, the Perseid meteor shower begins just as the last quarter moon rises, but its peak night in August will be marred by moonlight.

For best results, get yourself out to a nice, dark spot away from city lights in the hours before dawn. Look to the northeast, towards the constellation of Perseus – the shower's namesake – which is where the meteors will appear to be radiating from. Avoid using your phone, to give your eyes time to adjust to the dark. Then, bust out the popcorn.