Cleveland-area organizations are preparing a variety of activities for the “once in a lifetime” spectacle on April 8
Typically, looking up at the sun isn’t a recommended activity. But on Monday, April 8, much of the Cleveland area will be making an exception – with the appropriate safety precautions, of course.
A total solar eclipse is expected to occur that day and, given that the last of its kind was recorded in Ohio on June 16, 1806 (the most recent solar event in 2017 was only visible to Ohioans as a partial eclipse), it’s being anticipated as a generational event. Accordingly, city leaders are taking steps to ensure the safety of eclipse viewers and the public at large.
While you prepare for the eclipse, be sure to review safety tips or find a convenient viewing site near you. Chances are you won’t have to go far, but if you do, be prepared for heavy traffic as tourists from outside the eclipse path are expected to flood the greater Cleveland area to catch a glimpse.
Below is a non-exhaustive list of eclipse-centric events at which you can experience the spectacle in good company:
- SolarFest – Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – April 5-8
- Total Eclipse Fest 2024 – Great Lakes Science Center – April 6-8
- Eclipse workshops and watch parties – Cuyahoga County Library (multiple branches) – April 1-8
- Celebrate the Eclipse with CPL – Cleveland Public Library (multiple branches) – April 1-6
- “Total on the Oval” at Wade Oval – hosted by University Circle Inc., and Cleveland Museum of Natural History – April 8
- Capitol Theater’s 103rd Birthday Eclipse – April 8
- Choolaah and Soul Yoga – Sun Salutations Yoga to Eclipse Hunger in Ohio City – April 8
- Total Eclipse of the Arboretum – Holden Arboretum – April 8
- Eclipse Day Party – Twist Social Club – April 8
- Total Solar Eclipse 5k + 1 Mile Run – Tremont Towpath – April 7
- Eclipse at Cudell Park – April 8
If you’re looking to take in the eclipse with a like-minded crowd, there are plenty of options. However, not everyone in and around the “path of totality” (parts of the U.S. where the total solar eclipse will be visible) is embracing and looking forward to the stargazing event of the century. According to the News Literacy Project, there exist several conspiracy theories regarding alleged connections between the total solar eclipse and a possible apocalypse.
While scientific authorities like NASA are unconvinced that the eclipse poses a threat to the planet, they do stress safe viewing practices with proper eyewear rated for sun-gazing. Residents in the path of totality are advised to refrain from reckless eclipse-viewing activities such as attempting to look up at the sun while driving.
However you plan to participate in eclipse-viewing activities, be sure to follow all safety guidelines and be considerate of your neighbors. After all, the sky belongs to us all!
Keep our local journalism accessible to all
Reader support is crucial as we continue to shed light on underreported neighborhoods in Cleveland. Will you become a monthly member to help us continue to produce news by, for, and with the community?
P.S. Did you like this story? Take our reader survey!
