5 Things to know about the Solar Eclipse in Belleville

On Monday, April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will be visible from parts of North America, including Canada. Belleville is going to be right in the path of totality.

During a total solar eclipse, the moon completely covers the sun, casting a shadow on Earth and darkening the skies. Belleville will experience a dramatic daytime darkness starting at 2:04 pm, with the total eclipse projected at 3:20 p.m.

The next solar eclipse in Belleville won’t happen in your lifetime: it will reoccur once every 360 to 410 years!

So make sure you get to experience it fully and safely on Monday, April 8, 2024.

Here are 5 Things to know about the Solar Eclipse in Belleville:

1. Where to watch: the Bay of Quinte has created a map of ideal places to watch the eclipse from. Click here for the map. West Zwick’s Park at 10 Bay Bridge Rd. and the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre at 265 Cannifton Rd. are your go-to spots in Belleville.
2. Find alternate ways of watching the eclipse. Looking directly at the sun during the eclipse can permanently damage your eyes! Solar eclipse glasses are available locally at Need a Hero? Comics at 200 North Front St. ($4.49 + tax), Showcase at Quinte Mall ($14.99 for a pack of 10), Once Upon a Child ($4.50 each), Tinkered Decor, and a limited supply of $2 glasses are available by emailing the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada at rasc.belleville@gmail.com. Or you may order from Amazon.ca. Make sure your solar eclipse glasses are ISO 12312-2 certified.
3. The Bay of Quinte has put together a list of other events happening on the day of the eclipse: Bollywood Night at BayLeaf, a community bike ride, a paint party at Meyers Pier by the Quinte Arts Council and a sweet bee and honey experience at Just Bee Cuz. Click here for more information.
4. Watch the eclipse from the comfort of your home on YouTube. Search Totality on the Bay as they livestream the eclipse from Meyers Pier.
5. We will be opening a Visitor Booth at West Zwick’s Park on the day of the eclipse. Watch this video for more tips.