If you're looking for a fun event to watch the upcoming solar eclipse, the Essex Region Conservation Authority has two coming up.
The full solar eclipse is the first visible from this region since 1979. It starts at 1:59 p.m. and ends at 4:29 p.m. on April 8.
Celest-Fest at the Beach will feature kids' crafts and nature walks at the Holiday Beach Conservation Area.
"Guests will be encouraged to pay attention to their surroundings as animals like birds that are usually silent at night may abruptly stop singing, and insects like crickets that are active at night may start chirping," said Director of Communications and Outreach Danielle Breault Stuebing. "This is a rare and wonderful opportunity to witness first-hand how much of an impact the sun has on the planet and its inhabitants."
The Total Eclipse of the Park is a family-friendly eclipse viewing event at John R. Park Homestead with activities like making pinhole projectors, shadow theatre, and a sun and moon costume contest.
EPIC wineries will serve wine-by-the-glass at both events.
Those interested in going to either event are encouraged to buy tickets in advance on ERCA's website. ERCA is not selling tickets at the gate. Each ticket includes a pair of ISO- and CE-certified eclipse glasses.
Both locations will open at 9 a.m., and guests should arrive early because traffic volumes could be heavy.
The Hillman Marsh Conservation Area will open early on April 8 for eclipse viewing. Admission is $10 per vehicle and $5 each for walk-ins, and guests are responsible for bringing their own eclipse-viewing glasses.
Later this month, ERCA will also host an Eclipse Evening talk with Steve Pellarin, a professor of Astronomy at the University of Windsor. The talk is at the John R. Park Homestead on March 22 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are free, but space is limited, so visitors are encouraged to reserve their seats online.
The next full solar eclipse isn't expected for at least another two decades.
