Today isn’t your typical Monday. In fact, today marks one of the coolest astronomical events — and one that won’t happen for another 20 years! A solar eclipse will take to the skies this April 8, resulting in a near-total blackout of the sun over multiple U.S. states. While the event is slightly dimmed in Miami, nothing’s going to stop us from witnessing the celestial phenomenon when it occurs this afternoon. Read on for where and how to view today’s partial solar eclipse in the Magic City.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the moon passes between Earth and sun, blocking the sunlight and casting its shadow onto Earth. April’s eclipse is set to occur on Monday, April 8 as it crosses over North America. And while Miami won’t be blanketed in total darkness — as it isn’t located along the viewing path — you’ll still be able to catch a glimpse of the astronomical event. And yes, you’ll want to see it because the next eclipse seen from the U.S. won’t happen again for another two decades!
Now as incredible of an experience that viewing a solar eclipse is, there are plenty of safety precautions one must take. You should never look directly at an eclipse without some form of protection such as special solar viewing glasses or pinhole projectors. Luckily, many viewing parties throughout Miami will be offering safety glasses to look up at the sky.
When to see the solar eclipse in Miami
Because Miami isn’t in the path of totality, it will be visible as a partial solar eclipse in the city, meaning the moon won’t entirely block the sun’s light. It will begin at 1:47 p.m. and continue until 4:13 p.m. The ‘peak’ of the eclipse will be visible at 3:01 p.m., reaching its maximum coverage of 45% of the sun.
Best places to watch the solar eclipse
Despite it being a partial solar eclipse, there are plenty of viewing parties taking place throughout Miami. Find them below:
Phillip & Patricia Frost Museum of Science
The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science will be hosting a full-scale celebration of this celestial event that will include viewing glasses and additional programming throughout the galleries and planetarium. You can gaze up at the eclipse from one of the museum’s six levels, beginning at 12 p.m. Rooftop access will be limited to active members only, and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
📍 1101 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
Shuckers Waterfront Grill
Why not attend a viewing party by the water? This waterfront bar is throwing an epic event that includes themed cocktails — “Over the Moon” and “Blinded by the Lights” — eclipse glasses and a happy hour you seriously can’t beat. Running from 10 p.m. ’til close, the restaurant’s Reverse Happy Hour includes $4 domestic draft beers, $5 domestic bottled beers, $6 well drinks, $8 frozen cocktails and $12 pitchers of the day.
📍 1819 79th Street Causeway, North Bay Village, FL 33141
Pier 5
Enjoy bay breezes, delicious bites and the perfect cocktails at Pier 5 during the solar eclipse! This event will kick off at 1 p.m. and last all day long, with he first 500 attendees receiving a pair of free eclipse glasses. Talk about views!
📍 401 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132