Total Solar Eclipse on April 8, 2024
Get ready to witness a celestial spectacle like no other! On April 8, 2024, Central Texas and the surrounding Hill Country will become prime viewing spots for one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events – a total solar eclipse. This rare occurrence, where the moon completely covers the sun, will turn day into night for a brief, magical moment. Central Texas is uniquely positioned to offer some of the longest durations of totality, making it an ideal location for eclipse enthusiasts and families alike to experience this once-in-a-lifetime event.
According to NASA, in Round Rock, people in the 78665 zip code will see 2 minutes and 44 seconds of total eclipse. Put your zip code into the NASA Eclipse Explorer tool to see how long the total eclipse will last in your area.
Where’s the best seat to view this once-in-a-lifetime event?
Check out the various solar eclipse viewing celebrations happening across the region to find the perfect spot for you and your loved ones to enjoy this rare astronomical event!
- Total Eclipse Viewing Party at Long Center, Austin Join the community at the Long Center for a unique viewing party on the lawn and HEB Terrace. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy eclipse-themed entertainment and refreshments. Event Details
- Eclipse Viewing Party at Middleton Brewing, San Marcos Middleton Brewing is hosting an Eclipse Viewing Party with beer specials available all day. Grab a pair of eclipse glasses (while supplies last) and enjoy this astronomical phenomenon with a cold brew in hand. Event Details
- Eclipse SunBLOCK Party, Dripping Springs Head over to Mercer Street in Dripping Springs for music, food, and eclipse-related vendors. This SunBLOCK Party promises fun and excitement for the whole family.Event Details
- Eclipse Over Texas, Waco This family-oriented event features telescopes, educational activities and programs. Food trucks will be available, and astronomers from Lowell Observatory and Baylor University will be onsite. Admission includes solar glasses. Event Details
- Reveille Peak Ranch Texas Eclipse Festival, Burnet A festival for all ages featuring live music, interactive art, local food, and craft vendors. Various camping options are available. Event Details
- 2024 Solar Eclipse Tailgate – Fall Creek Vineyards, Tow Pack your chairs and blankets, bring a lunch, and enjoy the historic 2024 Solar Eclipse at Fall Creek Vineyards. Wine will be available for purchase on site. Event Details
- Sandy Road Vineyards, Johnson City Enjoy a day at Sandy Road Vineyards with food for purchase, complimentary wine, live music, and solar glasses. Gather with fellow astronomy enthusiasts for a memorable eclipse viewing experience. Event Details
Don’t forget to use proper solar viewing glasses to safely enjoy the eclipse. Mark your calendar for April 8, 2024, and join in the excitement!
Round the Rock will GIVEAWAY 2 Eclipse Go-bags! Stay Tuned.
Why this solar eclipse is such a big deal?
It’s hundreds of years in the making! A total solar eclipse is an exceptionally rare celestial event. It is estimated to recur at any given place only once every 400 years. For Central Texas, it’s been 619 years since the last opportunity to witness one in this area!
Last Time in Central Texas
May 26, 1397
Coming Soon – April 8, 2024
The Next Time
February 25, 2343 (in 319 years!)
What does the “Path of Totality” mean?
Eclipses occur due to the special coincidence of the Moon and the Sun being the same angular size. The Sun is 400 times wider than the Moon, but it is also 400 times farther away, so they appear to be the same size in our sky. This is what allows the Moon to completely block the Sun during total solar eclipses. The path of totality is where observers will see the Moon completely cover the Sun. The map below from KVUE News shows the Path of Totality in Central Texas.
For safety information and to learn what NASA is doing during the eclipse, visit them online here. You can also check out the NASA 3D visualization video of the 2024 total eclipse here. Watch Earth rotate and see the shadow of the moon.
