Experience the 2024 Solar Eclipse in Beautiful Burlington, Vermont
While you can enjoy the solar eclipse right at The High Meadows with your protective solar glasses, there are loads of places to enjoy all the festivities for this once-in-a-lifetime event!
Burlington, Vermont is one of the prime locations along the path of totality for the upcoming solar eclipse on April 8th, 2024. This celestial spectacle is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness the moon completely blocking out the sun, creating a magical twilight effect in the middle of the day. If you're planning on joining the thousands of excited skywatchers flocking to Vermont, here's what you need to know:
Eclipse Timing in Burlington
Partial eclipse begins: Around 2:15 PM EDT
Totality begins: Approximately 3:35 PM EDT
Totality duration: About 3 minutes and 20 seconds
Partial eclipse ends: Approximately 4:55 PM EDT
Where to Watch the Eclipse in Burlington
- Burlington offers many great vantage points for experiencing this incredible event:
- Waterfront Park:This spacious park along Lake Champlain offers stunning views of the Adirondack Mountains, perfect for a picnic and eclipse viewing.
- Battery Park:A hilltop park providing panoramic views of the city and Lake Champlain. ([invalid URL removed])
- Oakledge Park: Another lakeside park with beaches, hiking trails, and wide-open spaces for skywatching. ([invalid URL removed])
- University of Vermont Campus: UVM's expansive green spaces are a great spot, and they'll likely host special eclipse events.
Eclipse Events and Activities
- ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain: This science museum is hosting a multi-day eclipse festival with exhibits, viewing opportunities, and expert talks.
- Fairbanks Museum & Planetarium (St. Johnsbury): About an hour and a half drive away, the Fairbanks Museum is planning a weekend-long eclipse celebration.
Tips for a Stellar Eclipse Experience
- Get eclipse glasses: Absolutely essential for safe viewing during all phases except totality. Purchase these well in advance!
- Arrive early: Popular viewing spots will get very crowded.
- Pack for changing weather: Be prepared, as April in Vermont can be unpredictable.
- Bring snacks and drinks: Make a day of it!
- Relax and enjoy: This is a rare and awe-inspiring event. Soak it in!
Additional Burlington Delights
Since you're coming to Burlington, make sure to enjoy some of the city's other charms:
- Church Street Marketplace: A vibrant pedestrian mall with shops, restaurants, and street performers. (https://www.churchstmarketplace.com/)
- Burlington Bike Path: A scenic trail along the lake, perfect for walking, biking, or rollerblading.
- Vermont Breweries: Explore the famous craft beer scene with numerous breweries within driving distance.
The 2024 solar eclipse promises to be an unforgettable experience. Burlington, with its spectacular setting and lively atmosphere, is the perfect place to witness this extraordinary cosmic event!