In cities and towns along the path of the April 8th solar eclipse, events (some dubbed “celest-fests”) will be taking place to celebrate the day and educate viewers about the breathtaking cosmic phenomenon. The next total solar eclipse is not expected to reach some parts of Ontario until 2099, and other areas of the province as far into the future as 2399, so don’t miss the opportunity to view this once-in-a-lifetime celestial event with friends and family! From rock concerts and food trucks to educational presentations and interactive activities for kids and adults, there will be something for everyone.
Celest-Fest at the Beach, Amherstburg, Ont.
From 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., head to the Holiday Beach Conservation Area in Amherstburg, Ont., to observe the eclipse at 99.99% obscuration on the shores of Lake Erie. The eclipse will reach its peak between 3:13 and 3:17 p.m. at this location. Guests can participate in a celestial themed kids’ craft activity and a guided forest hike. Snacks, beverages, and wine by the glass from EPIC wines will also be available for purchase. Tickets are $15 and include eclipse glasses. Don’t forget to purchase them before you arrive! Tickets will not be available at the gate.
Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum’s Great Solar Eclipse event, Waterford, Ont.
The Waterford Heritage & Agricultural Museum is hosting an eclipse event from 1 to 4 p.m., with admission by donation. The event is drop-in style and includes eclipse-themed art activities. While you’re there, be sure to browse the museum’s robust collection of agricultural artifacts, including tractors and other original farming equipment! The museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the day of the event.
Niagara Falls Solar Eclipse Concert, Niagara Falls, Ont.
“Come for the total eclipse, stay for the free rock show,” reads Niagara Falls Canada’s event webpage. The Falls will be one of the best locations in the province to view the astronomical event as the city is in the eclipse’s path of totality, where viewers will be able to witness the moon fully eclipsing the sun for over three minutes. The concert, featuring acts such as The Glorious Sons, JJ Wilde, New Friends, and the Niagara Symphony Orchestra, will take place at Queen Victoria Park from 2:30 to 10 p.m. Plus, did we mention it’s totally free?
Total Solar Eclipse Viewing Party, Picton, Ont.
View the eclipse from the comfort of the Royal Hotel garden in Picton, another Ontario community in the solar eclipse’s path of totality. From 2 to 4 p.m., guests can watch the eclipse (with free eclipse glasses, while supplies last) alongside real-time commentary from astrophysicist and York University professor Sarah Rugheimer. She’ll guide viewers through the eclipse as it progresses, making for an enlightening afternoon. Totality will begin at 3:21 p.m. and last for about three minutes. Admission is free but lunch or dinner reservations for the hotel’s restaurant are required.
Fort Henry Presents: Total Solar Eclipse, Kingston, Ont.
Historic Fort Henry is one of the best places to be in Kingston during the eclipse. From 12 to 5 p.m., enjoy live music from local bands, children’s games and activities, an artisan market, and guest speakers, including science journalist Bob McDonald from CBC Radio’s Quirks and Quarks. In Kingston, totality will last from 3:22 to 3:25 p.m. Pre-registration for the event is free, and includes a pair of eclipse glasses.
Eclipse Party in the Park, Cornwall, Ont.
Head to Lamoureux Park from 2 to 4 p.m. for unobstructed views of the total solar eclipse. With food trucks and a DJ, visitors will have a blast viewing the celestial event at this free gathering in the park. Attendees are advised to bring their own lawn chairs and eclipse glasses, and parking and washrooms will be open during the event. Totality will begin at 3:24 p.m. and last for just over three minutes.
Remember that regular sunglasses will not protect your eyes during the eclipse. Be sure to come prepared with ISO-certified glasses to safely enjoy the spectacle.
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