March 22, 2024
On Monday, April 8, the Moon will pass directly in front of the Sun and cast its shadow across the surface of Earth, creating a unique, and for many, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness a total solar eclipse!
Millions of people across North America, including parts of Oakville, will have a view of the total solar eclipse, when the Moon completely blocks the Sun, while millions more will have a chance at seeing at least a partial solar eclipse.
While all of Oakville will have a spectacular view of the eclipse, those along the waterfront in Bronte, Kerr Village and Downtown Oakville will have one of the best seats in the house to witness the total solar eclipse in all its glory! To see the full eclipse path over Oakville, known as the path of totality, visit this interactive animation here.
Top Viewing Locations in Oakville:
Lakeside Park – 144 Front St., Oakville
Lakeside Park is just down the road from the main Lakeshore strip of Downtown Oakville, which has incredible shopping at local boutiques such as Lemonwood and bluboho, plus a number of dining options including Ce Soir Brasserie + Bar and Piazza Bistro.
Tannery Park – 5 Walker St., Oakville
A 5-minute drive away from the bustling Kerr Village, with great places to grab a bite to eat such as Stoney’s Bread Company, or our Talk of the Town Award winner for best cafe, Verada Central Coffee Roasters.
Bronte Heritage Waterfront Park – 2340 Ontario St., Oakville
This park is a two minute walk to Bronte Village that has a number of restaurants and cafes such as Taste of Colombia for a great coffee, The Flavour Fox which won our Talk of the Town Award for Best Hot Chocolate and Bronte Fish and Chips.
See below for the exact timing of the eclipse in Oakville:
Start of Partial Eclipse: 2:04 p.m.
Start of Totality: 3:19 p.m.
End of Totality: 3:19 p.m.
End of Partial Eclipse: 4:31 p.m.
Viewing this event is weather-dependent, and the eclipse will not be viewable if cloud cover is present.
Safety Comes First!
While excitement builds as we get closer to this unique astronomical event, it is important to prepare to ensure we remain safe when the day arrives!
Watch the video below by the Canadian Space Agency to learn more about solar eclipses and how to view them safely:
Safety Recap:
- Always avoid direct eye contact with the Sun (including through a camera or telescope)
- Use special glasses with certified eclipse filters.
- If you’re buying a new pair of solar viewing glasses, be sure that they are genuine and meet the standards required for safe solar viewing (ISO 12312-2 international standard).
- Regular sunglasses will NOT protect your eyes.
Learn More About The Eclipse:
Looking to find out more information about the 2024 total solar eclipse and where to get safety glasses? Check out these local places below!
Oakville Public Library
The Oakville Public Library is providing solar eclipse glasses at two programs (while supplies last):
o Friday, April 5, 3:30-5:00 p.m. at Central Branch
o Friday, April 5, 3:30-5:00 p.m. at Glen Abbey Branch
Learn more about the Library’s events at the other branches here.
The Monarch Butterfly Eclipse Project
The Monarch Butterfly Eclipse Project, aims to raise awareness about the conservation of Monarch Butterflies while also providing individuals a safe way to witness the total solar eclipse.
They are offering ISO Certified solar eclipse glasses for sale, and 20% of the gross sales will be donated back to the partnering organization, while 100% of the net profit will go to The Monarch Butterfly Eclipse Foundation. Learn more and purchase solar eclipse glasses here.
Book Accommodations:
Planning to visit Oakville for a great viewing opportunity of the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse on April 8th? With many great hotel options to choose from, finding the perfect place to stay is easy. Explore our accommodations and book your stay today to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience!
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