Experience the Total Solar Eclipse!

A total solar eclipse is like nature's own cinematic blackout. The Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, causing the Moon to cast a shadow on Earth, briefly turning day into an eerie twilight. It's a cosmic rarity that'll paint the skies with wonder and captivate countless spectators.

It's not just a once-in-a-lifetime thing; it's a once-in-several-centuries kind of deal. This spectacular event that can only be experienced along a relatively narrow strip on the Earth's surface. Most solar eclipse viewers will not get the opportunity to witness the grandeur of a total solar eclipse because of the narrow strip of totality.

While partial solar eclipses, as well as total and partial lunar eclipses, take place regularly, the last time this region witnessed a total solar eclipse was over 700 years ago, and the next cosmic rendezvous won't happen until the year 2399.

This cosmic event happens approximately once in a generation and will be visible across a narrow route, called the path of totality, which extends through Mexico, the United States, and Canada.

The solar eclipse is expected to start at 2:04 p.m. and last about two and a half hours. The sun will be fully eclipsed at approximately 3:20 to 3:23 p.m. EDT.

Where Will You Be on April 8th

Whether you decide to stay home on April 8th or travel to experience the eclipse, make sure to protect your eyes.

Here are several options for travel:

New York State and Ontario parks and historic sites along the path of totality are gearing up for this once in a lifetime event and look forward to welcoming visitors from all around. Here's a quick look at some of the state parks and historic sites along the path of totality that are hosting events:

Bay of Quinte

The Bay of Quinte website has a map of the best viewing locations and some featured events, including a Greater Napanee viewing party.

Bay of Quinte Mohawks – The complete solar eclipse represents an opportunity to mark an important milestone in the history of the Rotinonhson:ni (People of the Flint/Iroquois People). Join the Kenhtè:ke Seed Sanctuary and Learning Centre and friends on April 8th from 1:30-4 pm to honor this historic moment in time. Events will include sharing of Rotinonhson:ni history, cultural practices and observation through eclipse glasses on the land of the Peacemaker.

Ganondagan State Historic Site

Learn about the science behind total solar eclipses, as well past eclipses in the context of Haudenosaunee history at Ganondagan State Historic Site. Ëgä:hgwáhdö't – There Will Be an Eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024 12:00 PM - 05:00 PM

Short presentations will be given leading up to totality, including past eclipses in the context of Haudenosaunee history and the science behind total solar eclipses. Traditional games may also be enjoyed before and after totality. Totality may be observed from either the main event field or from the top of Fort Hill. Programs after totality include Native American storytelling and a discussion of the shared experience of witnessing totality. Public event in field at intersection of Boughton Hill Road and Murray Road, Victor, NY 14564.

Niagara Falls State Park

Be on hand to experience programming and exhibits put on by scientists, subject matter experts, and astronauts from NASA at Niagara Falls State Park.

John Brown Farm State Historic Site

Take in the total solar eclipse at John Brown Farm State Historic Site, along with tours, activities and exhibits. John Brown Farm Eclipse Viewing on Monday, April 8, 2024 10:00 AM - 04:00

Join us at John Brown Farm for a beautiful view of the Adirondack Mountains during the eclipse. In addition to the wide-open fields of the property for viewing the eclipse, we will also have tours of John Brown's House, activities in the lower barn, and an exhibit of Timbuctoo in the upper part of the barn. Eclipse glasses will be provided on a first come first served basis. No registration required. For questions please contact Brendan Mills at 518-523-3900 or [email protected].

Wellesley Island State Park

Experience the magic of 100% totality along with amateur astronomers, eclipse activities, and a solar telescope at Wellesley Island State Park.

For the entire list of parks and sites along the path of totality and events and activities leading up to April 8, visit our Events Calendar.

St. Lawrence College (SLC)'s three main campuses are situated on the traditional lands of the Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples. The college and our community of students and employees are grateful to live and to learn on these lands.

In collaboration with the Haudenosaunee communities of Akwesasne and Tyendinaga, and with the support of Indigenous colleagues and partners from across the region, SLC will observe the upcoming total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, with a poignant condolence ceremony, Wiping the Tears: From the Shadows to Reconciliation. Ceremonies will be held on each campus and are open to the public to attend. These ceremonies aim to address historical grievances and foster a path towards genuine reconciliation and will incorporate individualized commitments and acts of reconciliation with a larger gathering.

Cornwall Campus: Between Aultsville & The River Institute along the river. Monday, April 8, 2 to 4pm.