Where to Watch: April's Total Solar Eclipse

Category:  News
Monday, March 11th, 2024 at 9:34 PM
Where to Watch: April's Total Solar Eclipse by Emma McNeeley
The Edinboro campus celebration poster courtesy of Pennsylvania Western University

Edinboro P.A. – With the solar eclipse on April 8 approaching, many local spots in Erie county are getting ready for the big event and hosting watch parties and events for the public to enjoy. 

 

During a solar eclipse the Moon casts a shadow on Earth, blocking the view of the Sun, and Erie is one of the few spots that will be in a path of totality, meaning the sun will be fully blocked, a large shadow cast over the area.  

 

With many out of town visitors, having multiple events and locations can come in handy. For Edinboro, the university will be hosting a fun party by Mallory Lake for students and the general public to enjoy. The event will have food trucks, t-shirts made by students to sell, and more. It's a chance to gather with friends and witness the historic moment.

 

For students who may not live on campus and want to indulge in the fun, there are plenty of options outside of Edinboro and in the Erie area. These events include:  

 

  • A watch party at Erie Sports Center hosted by Erie News Now will start at 1 p.m. until 4 p.m.  

 

  • Eclipse on the farm at Port Farms in Waterford will have activities from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with live music, food trucks, and animals. Tickets are required and more information can be found here 

 

  • A watch party at Erie Land Lighthouse from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. with updates on what’s to come found.  

 

  • The Erie Maritime Museum will host a free to the public watch party and family fun activities for everyone. 

 

  • Goodell Gardens and Homestead in Edinboro will have an Eclipse Fest all afternoon with an art show, vendors and food trucks. Tickets are limited and found on their website. 

 

For any other events in possible areas, there is a map and list of options can further be found on Erie News Now’s Website 

 

As for more campus details, the planetarium’s shows have been sold out. According to David Hurd the Planetarium Director, a couple shows will be opened on April 8 and are for just students.