2024 Total Solar Eclipse

​Sun’s (kind of??) out, fun’s out, St. Thomas! 

Yet another day, this April 8th, that illustrious ball of gas you all know and love rises to shine down upon the always radiant Railway City - but this time is like no other. In fact, this event is so rare that the next time we’ll get the chance to see it happen here in Southwestern Ontario will be 2144 - in 120 years! By then, the city of St. Thomas will be close to marking its 350th anniversary! 

My apologies for keeping you in the dark for so long (haha! Get it?), but as I’m sure you’ve already guessed, we’re talking about none other than the upcoming total solar eclipse!

Lasting roughly 1 minute and 19 seconds, unfortunately the duration of the total eclipse and its night-like conditions won’t be quite enough to catch up on your beauty rest, but personally, I don’t think this celestial spectacle is something that you’ll want to sleep through!

With only a couple weeks to go, the countdown is on and, never fear, Railway City Tourism is here to help you and your family to prepare for this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Did you know?

1. An eclipse occurs because the Sun is about 400 times bigger than the moon, but is 400 times farther away, so the Sun and Moon appear the same size.
2. It’s the first time in 99 years that a total eclipse is visible in Southwestern Ontario.
   
3. If it is overcast or raining you won't see the eclipse, but it will still get dark.
4. The Earth orbits the Sun and the Moon orbits the Earth. In this pattern of going around sometimes the Moon crosses the line between the Earth and the Sun.
   
5. From our vantage point on the Earth, an eclipse occurs when the disk of the Sun is covered, whether partly or entirely. If an eclipse occurs when the Moon is a little farther from the Earth, it’s an annular eclipse.
   
6. While the disk of the Sun is completely blocked, as seen from some points on the Earth, it’s a total eclipse at those particular locations.
   
7. Some folks travel a long way to see an eclipse happen, but in southwestern Ontario, the next total solar eclipse isn’t until the year 2144. Tell your grandchildren!
   

learn more!

What is a total solar eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the moon’s orbit intersects the Earth and the sun, but a total solar eclipse can only be seen when all three are in direct alignment, meaning that only select locations are lucky enough to get the full experience. During a total eclipse, the moon appears to cover the sun, despite being 400 times smaller, but that’s because it also happens to be around 400 times closer to the Earth. 

How do I safely observe the eclipse?

During the approximately 1 minute and 19 seconds of total eclipse, the level of brightness is equivalent to that of a full moon, meaning that you can safely observe with your bare eyes. Outside of that timeframe, it is dangerous to look directly at the eclipse without approved appropriate eyewear, which you can find at our location (605 Talbot Street, across from Legends Tavern) while supplies last! 

When will the total eclipse be visible? 

The partial eclipse will begin at 2pm, slowly transitioning into a full eclipse at around 3:15pm Eastern Standard Time before once again becoming a partial eclipse until 4:30pm and the sun goes back to normal. You need to be within the total solar eclipse path in order to see the eclipse (see map above).

And more!

Royal Astronomical Society
Eclipse Info Page

DetailEd Eclipse Info
For Elgin County

ST. THOMAS PUBLIC LIBRARY
​ECLIPSE INFO SESSION

Watch in St. Thomas

Westlake-Evans Viewing Location - Photo by 94.1 myFM News staff

Seasoned astronomists recommend finding a spacious area with clear skies and not much to obstruct your view in order to achieve the best results. With that in mind, and in no particular order, here’s our top 4! 
​

1. ​Lake Margaret - Watch as the moon performs its delicate dance across the path of the sun amidst the pristine and unparalleled natural splendour of Lake Margaret. Nothing short of picturesque, if its unforgettable moments you seek, you will not be disappointed! 
2. Elevated Park - Nestled far above the bustling cityscape, the former trestle bridge turned Canada’s first and only elevated park offers the perfect vantage point for observing the total eclipse rise over the stunning skyline of St. Thomas! Fair warning: if heights leave you frightened like myself, this one might not be for you. 
3. 1Password Park - Characterized by its vast fields and unobstructed skyline, the expansive greens of 1 Password Park are fantastic for watching both your kid’s soccer games and this rare celestial event! Bring some snacks, find a spot along the bleachers, and pop on your protective eyewear, this is sure to score in your family’s books! 
4. St. Thomas Public Library​ - Located right in the downtown city core, the St. Thomas Public Library will be hosting an eclipse indoor activities! As with most of their amazing programs, this event is fun for people of all ages - you won’t want to miss it!​

Activity ideas

Although the eclipse eventually has to come to an end around 4:30, while you’re already here it's a great time to make the most of your trip, relax a little with some supper, or talk a stroll with one of our self-guided tours.

Local Dining
Find some great options to experience local! From Plaza Sushi, to the Roadhouse, to Lotus Thai or one of our newer additions such as Grassroots, you’re certain to find something for everyone! Or if restaurants aren’t your thing, you could check out our prestigious Pizza Trail located on our website, boasting arguably the most (and best) pizza per capita!

Self-Guided Tours
After a meal you're sure to remember, you could explore our city's vibrant culture by taking our self-guided mural tour, or you could take a short walk down the Whistlestop Trail! Pick up one of our popular trail guides and, depending on your mood, either depart for an exhilarating adventure or set off on a serene stroll. The choices are endless! And the best part? It’s all up to you! 

With the last total eclipse in this province happening nearly 40 years ago, and the next closest to us being over 100 years into the future, to simply state that the 2024 total solar eclipse is a big deal for Elgin County is a massive understatement. We truly hope that we’ve been able to provide some inspiration for you and your families to make the most of such a momentous occasion and that you’ve learned a little about the eclipse along the way! 

With that said, enjoy and remember to stay safe out there St. Thomas! 

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Author

MEGAN PICKERSGILL
​From Elgin County fields to global cultures, Megan's journey led her to St. Thomas as Tourism Manager with the EDC. Here she fuels her passion for history, art, and community development—when not digging in her garden. Reach her at [email protected].