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Niagara Falls Solar Eclipse

Monday, April 8

Join us on Monday, April 8, 2024, to witness the total solar eclipse in Niagara Falls, ranked #11 on National Geographic's "Best of the World" list for travel adventures.

The moon is expected to completely cover the sun in the direct path of totality, making this a rare opportunity to observe this phenomenon. The solar eclipse experience is expected to start at 2:04 pm and last for about two and a half hours. The sun will be fully eclipsed at approximately 3:18 pm and lasting for three minutes.  

After 2024, the next chance to witness such an event in North America will be in more than 20 years!

Niagara Falls will be one of the best places in Canada to view the eclipse. Hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected to be here to share it with us. Expect crowds, lines and traffic.

Keep scrolling to learn how to plan and safely view the eclipse!

Safe Viewing Information

Your safety is our priority!

"Please remember to bring your ISO-approved eclipse glasses so that you, too, can safely enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience." - Mayor Jim Diodati.

• ISO-certified solar eclipse viewing glasses are now available to purchase at the Niagara Falls History Museum's gift shop while supplies last.

• Directly observing the sun without proper eye protection, even briefly, can cause serious harm, including retinal burns, blurred vision, or permanent loss of eyesight, as retinas lack pain sensors, making damage often unnoticed until it's too late.

• Before using a solar filter, carefully inspect it for damage and follow the provided instructions. Discard it if you notice any scratches, tears, or punctures.

• Supervise children when using solar filters.

• Keep eyeglasses on and wear eclipse glasses over them or hold them in front for viewing.

• When viewing the sun, stand still and cover your eyes with eclipse glasses or a solar viewer. Turn away before removing the filter.

• Never view the sun through unfiltered optical devices during an eclipse.

• If appropriate eye protection is unavailable, alternative viewing strategies, such as a live stream, should be considered.

Ways Residents Can Prepare

Plan ahead for a safe and successful eclipse day!

Here are some tips to prepare:

• Travel:

  • Expect crowds, lines, traffic and limited parking.

  • Call 211 or check our website for service changes, closures and more!

• Think about your personal safety and security:

  • Purchase ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses in advance from a reputable supplier, as you may not be able to find any on April 8.

  • Make sure children know how to view the eclipse safely.

  • Do not leave valuables in your vehicles.

• Errands & Appointments:

  • Schedule your errands and appointments early, before Friday the 5th if possible.

  • Check ahead if you have plans for Monday the 8th; some services may be closed or have limited hours during this time.

  • Arrive early to events and activities.

• Supplies: Overall, some supplies may be limited due to the high demand; which may mean the items you want are not available immediately before or after the total solar eclipse.

  • If there is something important you want, get it early.

  • If you’re heading to an eclipse event, pack everything you need for the day. Have snacks, water, phone chargers, entertainment, medication and first-aid supplies on hand.

  • Have an emergency kit and preparedness plan for potential disruptions.

• Gas: If you normally fill up your gas tank Friday – Monday, be sure to do that task early, before Friday, April 5th.

• Cellular Service: As with any large event that brings high levels of visitation into a concentrated area, it is possible that cell signal may be compromised. Consider these ideas to assist with communications during this time:

  • Develop a communication plan with family and friends if you lose or have limited service.

  • If you only have a mobile phone at home find out which of your neighbors have a landline number in case you need to call 911 for an emergency.

• Cash: If you regularly use cash or want some on hand, consider visiting your local bank or ATM before April 5th as some ATMs that operate on WiFi might be unavailable due to the increased cellular traffic.

• City Facilities: View details on which City facilities are open and closed on Monday, April 8.

Additional tips for visitors and businesses can be found at niagarafalls.ca/solareclipse.

Check our page for updates and information leading up to and on the day of the eclipse!

niagarafalls.ca/solareclipse