What is the Draconid shower?

The Draconids (sometimes called the Giacobinids) are a meteor shower caused by Earth passing through debris (dust, small particles) left by Comet 21P/Giacobini-Zinner. earthsky.org+3Wikipedia+3Space+3
The meteors appear to radiate from the constellation Draco (the dragon) — hence the name “Draconids.” Wikipedia+2earthsky.org+2
What makes the Draconids somewhat special is that their radiant is fairly high in the sky early in the evening, so unlike many meteor showers (which are best viewed after midnight), the Draconids can be observed soon after dark. Blue Skys Affiliate+3earthsky.org+3Space+3

When is it active & when does it peak?

The Draconid meteor shower is active from October 6 through October 10. Space+4NASA Science+4earthsky.org+4
The peak (the time when meteor activity is highest) is expected on the night of October 8 (through the night of Oct 8 → 9). Star Walk+6earthsky.org+6Space+6
In 2025, the predicted peak time (in Universal Time) is ~ 19:00 UTC on October 8. earthsky.org

Historically, the Draconids are relatively quiet — in many years you’ll see only a few meteors per hour. Star Walk+3Space+3Royal Museums Greenwich+3
In 2025, forecasts suggest some potential for a low-level outburst (i.e. somewhat more meteors than usual). But this is speculative, and whether it actually happens depends on exactly which dust trails Earth crosses. Space+5Wikipedia+5Star Walk+5
One significant problem: a bright moon (near full) around October 6–7 will “wash out” many of the fainter meteors, making them harder to see. Star Walk+4Space+4earthsky.org+4
So, most of what you’ll see might be the brighter “fireballs” or meteors with longer, brighter trails. earthsky.org+2Space+2

Go early after nightfall: Because the radiant is high early, the best window is just after dark, before midnight. Star Walk+3earthsky.org+3Royal Museums Greenwich+3
Get away from light pollution: Dark skies are key — the fewer city lights, the better your chances to spot fainter meteors. Royal Museums Greenwich+2earthsky.org+2
Let your eyes adjust: Give your eyes ~20–30 minutes in the darkness to adapt, and avoid looking near bright lights or your phone screen.
Look toward Draco / spread your view: While the meteors radiate from Draco, they can appear all over the sky. You don’t need to stare exactly at Draco.
No telescope or binoculars needed: A wide field of view is better; telescopes and binoculars limit the area of sky you can see.
Dress warmly, bring a blanket or reclining chair for comfort — meteor-watching requires patience.