Anticipation builds one month out from total solar eclipse in Cleveland
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Eyes toward the sky. Photo: Louisa Gouliamaki/AFP via Getty Images
Today marks exactly one month from the event we've all been waiting for.
Why it matters: Destination Cleveland estimates 200,000 visitors will be in town, and seemingly every major local institution is getting in on the action.
- Great American Eclipse predicts we could see more than a half-million visitors statewide.
Driving the news: On April 8, Cleveland will be in the direct path of the total solar eclipse for the first time in more than 200 years.
- The eclipse is expected to start at 1:59pm and reach peak darkness at 3:13pm before ending around 4:29pm.
The intrigue: Eclipse mania has been in full swing since Destination Cleveland launched an eclipse tourism campaign a year ago.
- The epicenter of festivities will be the Great Lakes Science Center, where NASA will set up one of three national broadcasting hubs.
- The science center will host Total Eclipse Fest from April 6-8, featuring live performances and immersive NASA exhibits, with 50,000 people expected to attend.
Between the lines: The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame will also host a SolarFest from April 5-8, featuring live music and eclipse-themed artifacts.
- Other watch parties will take place at Wade Oval, Crocker Park, Bookhouse Brewing, Beachwood High School, Holden Arboretum, Crushers Stadium and Cleveland Metroparks locations.
- For those attending the Guardians' home opener on April 8, the first pitch will not be thrown out until around 5:10pm, when the eclipse will be over.
The other side: Though most Northeast Ohio counties are hosting events, Summit County is suggesting residents stay home to avoid traffic issues for emergency vehicles.
Pro tip: To view the eclipse safely, you must wear eclipse glasses or viewers that meet international standard ISO 12312-2.
- Glasses are for sale at local venues including Great Lakes Science Center, Clevo Books, Mac's Books, Sixth City Cycles, B & L Comics and Eye Optical Inc.
- A list of reputable manufacturers and authorized vendors can be found here.
💠My thought bubble: I apologize in advance, as this isn't the last story you will read from us about the eclipse leading up to April 8.