What Is a Total Solar Eclipse?
Put those science caps back on! Unlike a lunar eclipse, a solar eclipse occurs when a planet or moon moves between the sun and the earth, blocking the sun’s light from reaching the Earth. 🌎
Eclipses can vary in totality, defined by the percentage of the sun that is blocked by the celestial body. And while it may seem like a unicorn of an experience that happens randomly, scientists estimate that partial eclipses happen more often than you might think: two to three times per year globally.
Unlike partial eclipses, total eclipses occur when the moon is aligned perfectly with the sun's center to leave only a thin solar corona on the very edge of the sun's circumference. Don’t get it wrong; an eclipse in any form is a rare celestial wonder to witness. However, a total solar eclipse is even more rare, and it takes about 375 years for a total solar eclipse to cross the same path.
But this isn’t an event you want to snooze on. The eclipse itself will last just over four minutes, which means you need to plan your celebration in advance. Long story short: don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness one of the most awe-inspiring celestial events right in your backyard.
Here’s Why Evansville Is the Perfect Place to See the 2024 Eclipse
Let’s revisit that concept of totality. Scientists use a term called the path of totality to determine which areas can view the eclipse in totality. Typically, this path is about 100 miles wide. And if you happen to live somewhere outside of that 100-mile streak, then the change in your earthly viewing angle/position means you’ll only be able to see a partial eclipse. That viewing position can affect the duration of the eclipse, which can range from as short as 30 seconds all the way up to five minutes.
But back to that original question: why is Evansville the best place to see this year’s total solar eclipse? Well, friends, we really lucked out. This year, our position on the fourth rock from the sun puts us smack dab in the middle of the path of totality. You could call it the best seats in the house, but we just call it home 😉
Don’t Miss These Local Evansville Region Eclipse Events
A once-in-a-lifetime event like the 2024 eclipse is meant to be celebrated. It’s time to put your phones on do-not-disturb, grab some snacks, and don your eclipse glasses. Whether you’re in town or on the river, here are some of the best local events celebrating the total solar eclipse.
Black Hole Sun Festival
Get ready for a weekend-long celebration at the Black Hole Sun Festival. From April 6th through 8th, head on over to the Vanderburgh County 4-H center for relaxed country vibes and a clear view of the skies. General admission is only $5 per person, and kids six and under can get in for free. On Sunday, April 7th, you can drop into the auditorium for a bluegrass concert. With free kids' games, antique toy and equipment museums, a car show, and a vintage camper rally, this event is perfect for all ages.
After the Dark Concert
Nothing says celebration like live tunes. Hop on over to the Vanderburgh County 4-H Center after the eclipse for the post-event party that can be seen from outer space. The After the Dark Concert starts as soon as the eclipse ends and headlines multiple feature artists, including Darryl Worley and Anthony Smith.
Downtown Evansville Total Solar Eclipse
Eclipse from the Ship
Sometimes, you just gotta kick things up a notch, and that’s exactly what the Eclipse from the Ship event has set out to do. It’s all aboard the LST-324, the only operational WWII LST boat still afloat in US waters ⚓️, to view the eclipse from the deck. While courtyard viewing is free of charge to the public, you can upgrade your ticket to VIP and get access to food from Pangea Pizzeria, a guided tour of the ship, and a free pair of eclipse viewing glasses.
Eclipse on the Ohio
If you’re not local to downtown Evansville, you can join the viewing party at the Eclipse on the Ohio event in Mt. Vernon, IN. This free event will host countless vendors, including everything from food trucks to craft booths, so you’re sure to find food and activities perfect for everyone. A limited number of eclipse glasses will be available for purchase, but we highly recommend getting yours before the big day to make sure you’re prepared.
Holiday World 2024 Eclipse Viewing Party
Pack up the kids and jump in the car to visit Holiday World in Santa Claus, IN, one of Southern Indiana’s most entertaining spots for the Holiday World 2024 eclipse viewing party. From 10 AM to 3 PM, you can enjoy local food trucks and family-friendly music while you wait for the show to begin. Eclipse glasses will be available free of charge (while supplies last). While the theme park won’t be open, you’ll get a free, front-row viewing spot for the eclipse.
Solar Eclipse at the Fair
The only thing better than having a front-row seat for the eclipse viewing is camping under the stars afterward. Pack your bags and grab your tents for the Solar Eclipse at the Fair event at the Posey County Fairgrounds. A one-night stay is $50 per group, and not only will you get the best view of the eclipse, but you’ll also get to sleep under twinkling celestial bodies afterward. But don’t wait. Reservations are limited and must be made in advance.
Total Eclipse of the Park
Head to Friedman Park in Newburgh, IN, for the Total Eclipse of the Park event. From 11 AM to 4 PM, celebrate the total solar eclipse with food trucks, a beer garden, and live music from Tailgate Revival. Bring family or friends and enjoy the free children’s activities or corn hole tournament until the show begins. Pro tip: pack lawn chairs or a blanket for extra comfort during the main event.
Pack Your Picnic Basket for Ellis Park
Come one, come all to the Track the Eclipse event at Ellis Park race track in Henderson, KY. From noon to 3 p.m., enjoy the family-friendly activities at Ellis Park while you wait for one of nature’s greatest spectacles. Food trucks will offer sweet and savory treats, or you can also pack your fanciest charcuterie board and make this a lunch break to remember. The first 100 attendees will receive free eclipse glasses.
Timing the Eclipse + Where to Buy Eclipse Glasses
When it comes to eclipse viewing, timing is essential! On Monday, April 8th, 2024, the eclipse will pass over the greater Evansville region starting at 2:02 PM CST, and you’ll witness approximately three minutes of a full, total solar eclipse.
Remember, you’ll need ISO-certified eclipse glasses to view the event safely. If you still haven’t snagged your eclipse glasses, here are a few of our favorite local spots to grab a pair for you and the whole family:
○ Downtown Evansville EID
○ Evansville Museum of Arts, History, & Science
○ Evansville Wartime Museum
○ Evansville Vanderburgh Public Library (Central Branch)
○ LST 325
○ Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden
○ Nick Nackery
○ River City Coffee & Goods
○ Vanderburgh County 4-H Center
○ Wesselman Woods Nature Preserve
Though these are our favorite local spots to get eclipse glasses, you may also be able to find eclipse glasses at your local supermarkets.
Join in on the Local Solar Celebration for the Ages
A total solar eclipse is one of the rarest celestial events we mortals can witness, so don’t let this once-in-a-lifetime event pass you by. You don’t have to travel far and wide; instead, join in on these local celebrations and catch the best seats in the house - right in your backyard.
Still need to snag a pair of those fancy solar eclipse viewing glasses? We gotcha covered. Click here to find local availability and get yours before the big day!
