Everything Under the Sun is in Tune…we’re ready for the sun to be eclipsed by the moon!
More than 18 months of preparing and planning is here – it is time for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse. I admittedly say time and time again, I know nothing about anything, but I’ve been eager to listen and learn about this once-in-a-lifetime experience for our community. I have a few highlights to share as you consider your final details of this celestial celebration.
Hit the grocery
The time is now! Remember that time a few years back when there was a toilet paper shortage? You don’t want to be put in that situation again, do you? In all seriousness, beat the anticipated traffic and get to the grocery and stock up on your Solar Eclipse party necessities as well as staple items to get you through until at least Tuesday of next week.
How should I dress?
Red and Green will make your eclipse experience pop, but don’t forget to grab an eclipse shirt from a local retailer!
Always important to me! If you haven’t already, check out the vast array of t-shirts and other eclipse gear at our local retailers. It is also reported that the temperature will drop up to 10 degrees at the time of the total eclipse, so layer up. During totality, the corona of the sun does some fun things to certain colors. Try wearing red & green together, the red becomes darker and faded almost black and the green very vibrant.
Things to do at home
Taking me back to at-home learning during the pandemic. I wasn’t good at it then, I’m certainly not now! Imagination Station has given some fun ideas for your family to enjoy and get into the spirit of the eclipse
Pack your patience
There are a couple of takes on this tip
- Traveling in traffic – specifically after the eclipse. Don’t expect to get in your car and return home or to your hotel or dinner plans quickly. Hang around the party or viewing site and share stories of what you heard, saw and felt during the eclipse. If you’re eager to get to the car have water, snacks, plenty of gas, and your favorite playlist ready to entertain your passengers.
- Get to your viewing site early, set up and get ready for the big event. You’ll want to be settled in and ready for the first point of contact that will occur around 1:55pm. Set up your viewing area facing southwest.
Don’t miss a thing!
This is the moment of totality and when it is safe to take your glasses off!
From 1:55 p.m. until the moment of totality you’ll want to wear your eclipse glasses when looking directly at the sun (Still need them? Get some here!) If you are tempted to watch the transition without your glasses – don’t do it. 3:10 p.m. (and 44 seconds to be exact) is when it is safe to view the sun and moon without glasses (don’t forget to take your glasses off!). You will witness the corona ring around the moon. Live in the moment, don’t try to take photos. There will be professionals doing that and you can find them on the internet later that day and reminisce!
During that time observe the sounds around you. Listen for animal activity – nocturnal animals will wake like they would at dusk! At 3:14 p.m. (and 40 seconds) it’s time to put your glasses on again to view the final phases of the eclipse.
Keep an eye on the sky! Liberty will be launching Monday morning, during the eclipse, and in the evening, weather-permitting
Bonus Tip: Savor the darkness and turn off all exterior lights around your home for optimal eclipse viewing!
An Added Extra
The Visit Findlay hot air balloon will soar around the Hancock County area on Eclipse day! We already have our eyes on the sky, so why not? Weather permitting, the balloon will launch at 7:30 a.m., 3:00 p.m., and 6:00 p.m.. Launch locations are to be determined – keep an eye on our social pages for updates! If weather conditions prohibit flights, the balloon will illuminate and glow at Emory Adams around the time of the Eclipse.
Many more tips and questions are answered here!
This is an event Findlay and Hancock County didn’t necessarily ask for or know how to plan. But one thing is for sure, the Findlay Hancock County community is a pretty special place. Safety and emergency personnel are prepared to handle the load, our small business embraced the opportunity and our community has answered by supporting them – our non-profits and educators have equipped us with wonderful learning opportunities. Take the time to enjoy this once in a lifetime opportunity. From what I’m told, you won’t be sorry.
Get your Moon Rock Ice Cream or Solar Sundae at Dietsch’s, and other eclipse treats and fun merch!