We’re just under a month away for one of the region’s most anticipated events – viewing the solar eclipse. Fortunately for Buffalo, the city is lined up perfectly with the path of totality, which means that throngs of people will be paying a visit to witness the once-in-a-lifetime (for most of us) event.
In New York State, some of the best viewing sites will be at State Parks and historic sites. For months, a NYS eclipse team has been putting together various events that are designed to accommodate, inform, and educate people who are interested in taking full advantage of this spectacular event.
“While we prepare to welcome the public to our beautiful state parks for the total solar eclipse in New York State, we’re also offering dozens of events and activities leading up to this extraordinary event,” said Governor Hochul. “Our top priority is ensuring that New Yorkers and visitors can safely witness this generational spectacle, and I encourage everyone to keep safety in mind so that all can savor this experience in our state.”
During the afternoon of April 8, a total eclipse will encompass the western and northern parts of New York State. In less than 15 minutes within a 3:15pm to 3:30pm window, the moon will pass between the earth and sun, turning day into night for 1 ½ minutes to 3 ½ minutes. The roughly 100-mile wide path of totality will enter in the southwestern part of the state at just after 3:15 PM, and will depart northern New York just before 3:30pm. Cities and towns within this path include Jamestown, Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse, Watertown, Old Forge, Lake Placid and Plattsburgh. The entire event will last for up to 2 ½ hours, marking the time the sun is first obstructed to the last moments when the moon’s shadow is cast.
Close to home, the following eclipse-related events are set to be held in NYS Parks
Tiny Tots – Space Explorers
Thursday, April 4, 2024 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Knox Farm State Park
Ages 3-5. Explore the natural world around us! This program will connect children & their parents/guardians with nature through short walks & fun activities. Registration Required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Fun in the Sun Crafts
Sunday, April 7, 2024 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Woodlawn Beach State Park
Celebrate the upcoming solar eclipse and unleash your inner artist! Enjoy the warmth of the sun by creating beautiful crafts inspired by the great outdoors. Materials provided. Registration required on Eventbrite.com.
Registration: Required
Totality On the Centerline
Monday, April 8, 2024
Buffalo Harbor State Park
Join us along the centerline of totality at Buffalo Harbor State Park for the eclipse. Educators will be on hand with information and activities to help enhance your viewing experience. A limited number of eclipse glasses will be available on a first come first served basis. Due to the nature of the event, we recommend planning to stay and enjoy the park, pack a picnic and some activities, but with the likelihood of wind on the waterfront we strongly suggest dressing in layers. No registration is required.
Events at State Parks and Historic Sites Within the Path of Totality
WESTERN NEW YORK
Allegany State Park
Eclipse Viewing Event (multiple programs)
Monday, April 8, 2024, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Buffalo Harbor State Park
Totality On the Centerline
Monday, April 8, 2024, 12:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Knox Farm State Park
Tiny Tots – Space Explorers
Thursday, April 4, 2024, 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Lake Erie State Park
Eclipse Viewing and Crafts
Monday, April 8, 2024, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Long Point State Park on Lake Chautauqua
Eclipse Viewing and Crafts
Monday, April 8, 2024, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Midway State Park
Eclipse Viewing Event
Monday, April 8, 2024, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM
For the entire line-up of events hosted at state parks along the path of totality, visit Events Calendar. For more information about the 2024 Total Eclipse in New York State, visit www.iloveny.com/events/eclipse-2024.
Lead image: Photo by Jongsun Lee
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