April’s total solar eclipse will take place on April 8. The solar eclipse will occur in five stages and be visible across the Northeast, including New England! The rare phenomenon only occurs once per year.
Luckily, 2024 is our year! The last total solar eclipse took place in October and did not pass over New England. Here’s everything you need to know about solar eclipses.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse is when the sun is partially or fully obscured by the moon, impacting the perceived shape of the sun.
According to space.com a solar eclipse ” occurs when the moon is far from the Earth, and therefore, the sun will not be completely obscured, leaving a fiery golden ring shining around the dark lunar disk. This will happen gradually, with the annular eclipse bookmarked by partial solar eclipse phases.”
Where and how to watch the solar eclipse?
NASA’s eclipse reporter is the best resource to track the solar eclipse. The interactive map highlights where the eclipse is most visible. A few places in in Boston are throwing Solar Eclipse-themed celebrations:
Deck 12 at Yotel Boston Seaport
What: A FREE solar eclipse viewing party with complimentary viewing glasses and half-priced appetizers.
When: Monday, April 8 from 2-5 PM, peak viewing at 3:29 PM
Where: 65 Seaport Blvd., Boston, MA
Revere Hotel Rooftop Solar Eclipse Watch Party
What: An exclusive solar eclipse themed viewing party with complimentary glasses from one of Boston’s best rooftops! $5 per guest.
When: Monday, April 8 from 12-5 PM
Where: The Revere Hotel; 200 Stuart Street, Boston, MA 02116
Alamo Drafthouse Twilight Party
What: A Twilight Saga pre-eclipse movie party complete with themed props, custom-packaged hand warmers, moon keychains, and more for guests to get into character!
When: Sunday, April 7 at 11 AM
Where: 60 Seaport Blvd #315, Boston, MA
Golden Retriever Eclipse Experience at Golden Dog Farm
What: Assuming weather cooperates, Golden Dog Farm expects to have front row seats to the eclipse, dark skies and bright sight lines. The viewing party also includes 1-hour of playtime with the farm’s golden retrievers, provisions, live music, photo sessions and more! Reservations required!
When: Monday, April 8 from 1-5 PM
Where: 1039 Pratt Rd, Jeffersonville, VT
When to watch the solar eclipse?
According to space.com, the total solar eclipse will pass through parts of New England, namely Maine and Vermont.
- Montpelier, Vermont: 3:27 PM (1 minute 42 seconds)
- Oakfield, Maine: 3:31 PM (3 minutes 23 seconds)