Two Windsor-Essex communities have announced their plans for a rare celestial event expected to draw throngs to the region.
For the solar eclipse on April 8, the Town of Essex and the Municipality of Leamington have put forth what they plan to do to observe the event.
While all of Windsor-Essex will see at least a partial eclipse, the two municipalities lie in what's known as the path of totality. This is the first time since 1806 the region will see a total eclipse, though the last one visible in Ontario was seen in the northern part of the province in 1979.
The Town of Essex is hosting an official viewing event. It will take place from noon to 4 p.m. at Colchester Harbour.
To safely view the phenomenon, ISO-approved solar eclipse glasses will be available on-site for $5 cash, while supplies last.
Details on parking can be found on the Town's official website.
Leamington is preparing for large crowds to come to the area for the event. While the Municipality has not announced a viewing party, public viewing areas will be ready, and there are tips for residents who want to see the eclipse.
"To help ease this congestion, it is recommended that residents view the eclipse from your neighbourhood," read a release from the Municipality. "It's as easy as going to your backyard, standing on your front porch, or walking to your local park."
Seacliff Park, Seacliff Beach, and Rick Atkin Park will be available for public viewing. The public washrooms will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island (TWEPI) has prepared a solar eclipse viewing guide to encourage out-of-town visitors to take advantage of the region's offerings and suggest places for viewing.
The provincial government has provided guidelines for safe viewing of the eclipse. It should only be viewed with special glasses with filters designed for safe viewing, with the ISO 12312-2 international standard. Sunglasses, smoked glasses, and exposed film will not protect the eyes.