Many local schools are closing on Monday, April 8, because of the total solar eclipse – when the moon will pass between the Earth and the sun, completely blocking the sun for about four minutes. And free community eclipse watch parties continue to pop up.
Here are some options for families who want to safely view the eclipse on April 8 without breaking the bank.
(Remember, it is never safe to look at an eclipse without certified protective eyewear or by viewing it though a pinhole camera.)
Cleveland
10 a.m. to 5 p.m., North Coast Harbor, 1050 E. 9th St.
This free outdoor event will include food vendors, entertainment and free eclipse viewing glasses (while supplies last).
Cleveland Heights
1:30 to 4 p.m., Community Center, 1 Monticello Blvd.
The city of Cleveland Heights hosts a watch party with a magician, face painter and activity stations. Registration required here or in-person at the Community Center. A limited number of eclipse-safe glasses will be distributed.
Old Brooklyn
2 to 4 p.m. at Loew Park, 3121 Oakpark Ave.
Old Brooklyn residents are invited to a watch party with eclipse glasses and free coffee and hot chocolate as supplies last.
Traffic info A partial eclipse will begin as early as 1:59 p.m. and last until 4:29 p.m. on Monday, April 8. If you plan to drive in the City of Cleveland, pay attention to road closures and parking restrictions. Traffic “officers will be out across the city at lights and ramps helping people get where they are going safely,” the city said on its website. Click here to find a list of all the parking bans and closures in Cleveland. The Ohio Department of Transportation created a map to help drivers navigate roads on April 8, when a lot of visitors are expected to converge on Northeast Ohio for eclipse viewing. See the map and various scenarios based on the number of visitors.
Find additional news and information about the April 8 solar eclipse here.