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A total solar eclipse will cast shadows across the sky this Monday, April 8 — a rare moment that only occurs in certain regions about once every 375 years. Cities across the United States will fall within the eclipse’s path of totality, meaning they will experience several minutes of complete darkness during the phenomenon, according to National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
The path stretches from New England, across the Great Lakes, through the Midwest and all the way down south to Texas. Watch from a state park, pier, your boat, or catch one of the following celestial activities across New England and the Great Lakes to celebrate this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Follow the eclipse path with NASA’s interactive map!
Maine Eclipse Festival Weekend
Houlton, April 5 – 8
Located directly on the path of totality, this Victorian town is hosting weekend-long eclipse events from concerts to craft fairs. Stay at local hotels or camp along the eclipse path at waterside sites such as Greenland Cove Cabins on East Grand Lake in Danforth.
Where to View:
Designated “Star Parks” throughout Aroostook County, ME:
Presque Isle:
Carribou:
Additional viewing areas:
Solar Eclipse Festival at ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain
Burlington, VT, April 5
Heading down the eclipse path just southwest of Maine, catch festivities across this waterfront city. ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain’s festival features telescope projections and pop-up exhibits. The Illuminate Vermont arts festival is also happening in South Burlington this weekend with live music, food trucks and an indoor/outdoor market.
Essex, NY, April 8
Just across the water on the New York side of Lake Champlain, catch some of the best eclipse views from the Adirondacks. Essex is hosting a North Boquet Mountain hike, art galleries and activities at participating bars.
Where to View:
Vermont:
New York:
Cleveland, April 6 – 8
The Great Lakes Science Center partners with NASA Glenn Research to host this celestial celebration at downtown Cleveland’s North Coast Harbor. Enjoy family-friendly science activities, performances, food vendors and free eclipse-viewing glasses.
Where to View:
Total Eclipse Woof Watch Party
Geneva-on-the-Lake, April 8
Ruff Life on the Lake’s pet-friendly restaurant and gift shop lets your furry friends join the fun at this dog-friendly viewing party. Enjoy eclipse-themed food, giveaways and free eclipse glasses for the first 100 guests.
Where to View:
“A Monumental Eclipse” at Put-In-Bay
Put-In-Bay, April 8
Head to Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial on South Bass Island for unobstructed views of the eclipse. The memorial commemorating the history of Lake Erie provides a fitting backdrop.
Where to View:
Total Eclipse of Sundusky Festival
Sandusky, April 5 – 8
Witness Sandusky transform into “Sundusky” with week-long celestial events. Check out Cosmic Education with the Cleveland Museum of Natural History’s senior astronomer (April 3), Jeepclipse (April 4), plus movie screenings and a weekend-long music festival. The grand finale features an eclipse viewing party and NASA livestream on the Jackson Street Pier.
Where to View:
Carbondale, April 8
Southern Illinois University teams up with Chicago’s Adler Planetarium, NASA and more for a guided, fun-filled day of eclipse activities. Head to the college’s Saluki Stadium for an amazing view and experience.
Chicago, April 8
Though Chicago is not on the direct path of totality, it is close enough to experience a partial eclipse along the water. The Adler Planetarium hosts this free outdoor event featuring telescope viewing, giveaways and family-friendly activities.
Where to View:
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