Celebrate the Total Solar Eclipse
Salute the celestial marvel at a local event, where you can witness the eclipse starting around 2 p.m. April 8 with protective glasses. Totality is around 3:13 p.m.
Akron Area
2024 Solar Eclipse over Richfield
Kick off your day with food and a live performance by the band Slam from 2 to 4 p.m. at Richfield’s eclipse party on the green. Starting at around 1:30 p.m., munch on grilled sausage sandwiches from Richfield Brewing Co. and eclipse cookies crafted by Ocelot Cafe and Bakery. Snag a commemorative T-shirt. April 8, on the Green at the corner of state Routes 303 and 176, Richfield. richfieldchamber.com/events/
Akron Soul Train’s Drumroll for the Total Eclipse
Expand your perception of the total solar eclipse April 8 with a performance by Akron Soul Train artist-in-residence Matthew B. Kurtz — whose work blends together the natural world, rhythm and movement itself. Featuring a drumroll by percussionists, the performance is synchronized to match the overhead phenomenon, which you can view with protective glasses around 3:13 p.m. The show is set to be captured on video and later displayed in the Soul Train gallery. Registration required, April 8, 2-3:30 p.m., Chestnut Ridge Park, 1926 19th St. SW, Akron. akronsoultrain.org/events
Akron-Summit County Public Library’s Solar Eclipse Programming
The library is holding viewing parties at its branches April 8 — but don’t miss its many events leading up to the eclipse. On April 4 at 2 p.m. at the Norton branch, join a preparty with space-themed crafts and a NASA simulation. Select dates feature more surprises, including prep talks with Carl Quatraro and science activities. Plus, pick up free glasses at branches starting March 30. Akron-Summit County Public Library. akronlibrary.org/solar-eclipse
City of Akron
The city has announced big plans for the solar eclipse — no matter where you are. Nine different community centers, such as Firestone Park, Kenmore and Summit Lake are open for safe viewing. Downtown, enjoy balloon art, a reptile show, face painting and a live DJ. With limited capacity available, be sure to register to receive an eclipse bag full of goodies from downtown businesses and a pair of eclipse glasses. April 8, Akron. akronohio.gov/news_detail_T17_R120.php
Eclipse Fest 2024
Celebrate the natural phenomenon in downtown Cuyahoga Falls with an eventful eclipse party. From food trucks and live music to vendors and a kids’ zone, this event is perfect for family fun. Don’t miss out on an array of street performances, crafts, face painting and more. Arrive early for prime seating and witness the sun safely with eclipse glasses from home or on-site. April 8, noon-5 p.m., Downtown Cuyahoga Falls. cityofcf.com/events/eclipsefest-2024
Eclipse Party at Jilly’s
Featuring live music from Mr. Jeff and Umojah Nation, this family-friendly event is one for the books. With a special kid-friendly menu, outdoor food stations and eclipse-themed cocktails, come hungry and thirsty. Glasses are handed out with food and drink purchases and there is eclipse merch from Rubber City Clothing to commemorate this rare experience. April 8, 1-6 p.m., Jilly’s Music Room, 111 N. Main St., Akron. downtownakron.com/event/special-event-eclipse-party
Green Goes Dark: A Solar Eclipse Event
Partake in scavenger hunts, a solar bakeoff, moonwalking contests and so much more at Central Park in Green. Enjoy good eats from venders such as Traveling Tom’s Coffee, Cheezylicious and Shiba Teriyaki while getting a spectacular view of the eclipse. Free, April 8, 1-6 p.m., Central Park, 1795 Steese Road, Green. cityofgreen.org/736/Green-Goes-Dark-A-Solar-Eclipse-Event
Kavé Rooftop Eclipse Party
View the eclipse from a rooftop while sipping on a caffeinated drink of your choice from Kavé Coffee Bar. Also sip iced tea or lemonade, and nosh on eclipse-themed snacks. Indulge while entering to win some goodies from basket raffles. Guests receive a complimentary 2024 Barberton Solar Eclipse shirt and viewing glasses. $50, April 8, noon-6 p.m., Kavé Coffee Bar, 584 W. Tuscarawas Ave., Barberton. kavecoffeebar.com/events/
Stan Hywet Solar Eclipse Viewing Party
Learn more about the eclipse by participating in educational activities put on by Stan Hywet’s education department, Akron Children’s Museum and Challenge Island. Feel free to take a self-guided tour of the grounds and the Manor House, then stop for refreshments at Molly’s. Guests can bring blankets and folding chairs to get comfortable. Enjoy a great view of the cosmic event with Stan Hywet eclipse glasses. Pre-registered event, $50 per car, April 8, 1-5 p.m., Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens, 714 N. Portage Path, Akron. stanhywet.org/events/solar-eclipse
Summit Metro Parks Solar Eclipse 2024 Events
Summit Metro Parks has plenty of pre-eclipse activities planned. March 30 marks the opening of the Celestial Bodies Photography Exhibit. Photographer Kathy Neugebauer talks about her works, as well as tips on photographing the night sky. Other events include the March 27 Kinderealm program Earth and Sun and Moon Oh My!, an Eclipse Exploration Open House April 5 and 6, and a Pre-Eclipse Solar-Bration April 7 — where a community art exhibit is unveiled. Select events through April 7, Summit Metro Parks. summitmetroparks.org/solar-eclipse-2024.aspx
Tequila and Totality: A Rooftop Solar Eclipse Experience
Celebrate the solar eclipse with this one-of-a-kind rooftop party. A ticket gets you two Komos tequila cocktails, three street tacos and, of course, viewing glasses. While waiting for totality, guests can play cornhole, win raffle baskets, try trivia and listen to music. $50, April 8, 1-5 p.m., El Patron Tequileria and Cuisine, 54 E. Mill St., Akron. eventbrite.com/e/tequila-totality-a-rooftop-solar-eclipse-experience-tickets-856277488017?aff=oddtdtcreator
The Sun, the Moon and the Art
View a curated collection of celestial-themed art by acclaimed photographer Ansel Adams, multimedia artist Nam June Paik and more at the Akron Art Museum. Groove to live music and sip eclipse-centric cocktails and mocktails during this immersive artistic experience from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 8. Also enjoy the marvelous view inside the Pneuhaus Com-pound Camera installation, featuring 109 inflatable pinhole cameras. $5 reservation, April 8, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Akron Art Museum, 1 S. High St., Akron. akronartmuseum.org/media/events/the-sun-the-moon-and-the-art-eclipse-day-at-aam/
Total Eclipse of the Zoo
Get into science at the Akron Zoo April 8 by helping the zoo staff monitor animal behavior during the eclipse — all data will be shared with NASA. Plus, attend keeper talks, make crafts, watch a NASA livestream and grab viewing glasses to watch the eclipse. Also catch a Galaxy Fest at the zoo April 6 and 7. Presale tickets required, $5-$24, April 8, 11 a.m.-5 p.m., Akron Zoo, 505 Euclid Ave., Akron. akronzoo.org/total-eclipse-zoo
Viewing Areas
Across Akron, parks, breweries and other attractions are reserved as viewing areas for the eclipse. From Sarah’s Vineyard to HiHo Brewing Co. and Hoppin' Frog brewery, find your perfect spot to see the event. Visit the Summit County Astronomy Club’s observatory at the Bath Nature Preserve too. visitakron-summit.org/solar-eclipse/
Canton Area
Eclipse-Fest 2024
Thrill seekers can visit Sluggers and Putters Amusement Park for unlimited access to outdoor laser tag, mini golf, go-karts and more. Grab your commemorative eclipse viewing glasses to watch the eclipse and enjoy live entertainment and food during this special two-day event. $30-$50, April 7, 1-6 p.m. & April 8, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Sluggers & Putters Amusement Park, 333 Lafayette Dr. NW, Canal Fulton. sluggers-putters.com/solar-eclipse-fest/
Massillon Museum’s Eclipse Celebration
Watch as astronomer Maram Kaire investigates the nation of Senegal’s deep-rooted history of astronomy in preparation for the total solar eclipse. Massillon Museum is showing the PBS television show NOVA’s episode “Star Chasers of Senegal,” as well as hosting artistic activities and giveaways. To complement the NEA Big Read program, a copy of “Homegoing” by Yaa Gyasi, a bookmark full of Big Read activities and one free pair of eclipse glasses is given to registered guests while supplies last. Related exhibits, such as Home Again: The Embodiment of Africa through Art and Fabric, are available for viewing. April 7, 2:30-4:30 p.m., Massillon Museum, Massillon. massillonmuseum.org/home/programs/museum-programs-and-events/nea-big-read-massillon-2024
Solar Eclipse Fundraiser at Maps Air Museum
See the rare celestial event at Maps Air Museum for an uninterrupted view of the eclipse. Available for purchase prior to the eclipse, lunch options include hot dogs, coney and kraut dogs, chips, hot chocolate, coffee, cookies and more. Guests have access to the museum from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. $42.63, April 8, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Maps Air Museum, 2260 International Parkway, North Canton. mapsairmuseum.org/events/solar-eclipse-fundraiser-maps-air-museum/
Solar Eclipse Mini Festival & Viewing Party at the Stark County Fairgrounds
Camp out or visit for this weekend long special event. Fair food, games and rides for kids are available to attendees. Whether you’re there all weekend or just stopping by, bring your viewing glasses and enjoy the eclipse on April 8. $50 per day for camping reservation, rides, games and concessions April 5-8, camping April 4-8, Stark County Fairgrounds, 305 Wertz Ave., Canton. starkcountyfair.com/news/solar-eclipse-mini-festival-viewing-party-april-5-8-2024
Solar Eclipse Festival
Featuring 50 artisans and vendors, giveaways, raffles and kids’ activities, Columbia Woods Park is the perfect location for a family-friendly eclipse event. Journey tribute band E5C4P3 is performing, and food trucks are available. Free, April 8, noon-5 p.m., Columbia Woods Park, 4060 Columbia Woods Drive, Norton. eventbrite.com/e/solar-eclipse-festival-with-a-bushel-a-peck-events-by-design-tickets-838984434027?aff=oddtdtcreator
Total Eclipse of the Hart(ville):
Enjoy a long weekend full of live music, food, shopping and stargazing. Start at the Home and Garden Sale and Expo April 6, then view the eclipse April 8 with free viewing glasses. End the weekend with a concert by tribute artist Terry Lee Goffee. Free, April 6-8, Hartville Kitchen, 1015 Edison St. NW, Hartville. experiencehartville.com/visit/eclipse-2024-ohio/
Walsh University Solar Eclipse Fest
Join Dr. Neil Walsh, “The Science Guy,” for science trivia and activities during this free event. Viewing glasses are offered, as well as food trucks, music and more. Also listen to a live radio broadcast from Sunny 101.7 with Josh Nagy. Free, April 8, 2-4 p.m., Walsh University Quad, 2020 E. Maple St., North Canton. cantonsnewcountry.iheart.com/calendar/content/2024-04-08-solar-eclipse-fest-walsh-university/
Kent Area
Kent Total Eclipse
Celebrate the cosmic rarity all weekend long with a glow-in-the dark Kent bar crawl April 5 and a Kent Stage concert by Pink Floyd tribute band Dark Side of the Moon April 6 — as well as a laser show April 7. On April 8, head to one of three stargazing shows in Kent State University’s 40-foot planetarium dome. Then gather for a viewing of the eclipse with commentary by physics professor Veronica Dexheimer. Plus, through June, see five new eclipse-focused artworks around downtown. Free-$30, April 5-8, various locations, Kent. kent.edu/eclipse
Medina Area
Eclipse Fun at Medina County District Library
Cuddle up with a book and your viewing glasses – the eclipse is coming, and so is a special booklist full of eclipse-themed reads. Check out everything from picture books (“Tell Me About Space” by Lisa Varchol Perron) to “Eclipse Chaser: Science in the Moon's Shadow” by Ilima Loomis. Plus, join in on eclipse crafts and other events at select locations. Participate in a Moon Rock Hunt in Medina April 8, make cereal box viewing glasses in Highland April 6 and more. View the phenomenon from a branch location from 2-3:30 p.m. April 8 with crafts and free glasses while supplies last. Medina County District Library. mcdl.info/Eclipse
Peninsula Area
Cosmic Glow
A new exhibit is launching at Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park, featuring works exploring elements of the eclipse. Five Northeast Ohio artists — Aja Joi Grant, Amber D. Kempthorn, Chen Peng, Theadis Reagins and Lyanne Torres — have work displayed. See how art can relate to the nature of a phenomenon as grand as the eclipse. Through May 27, 1565 Boston Mills Road, Peninsula. conservancyforcvnp.org/experience/gallery/
Have an eclipse event to add? Email info to kpetryszyn@bakermediagroup.com
See tips on how to safely view the eclipse here: facebook.com/kentstate/videos/816309943258903