On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will cross North America, passing over Mexico, Texas, several other states, and Canada. Many events are being organized to celebrate this rare celestial display. One such event is the ‘Eclipse Over Texas: Live from Waco’ which is being organized by Lowell Observatory in collaboration with the City of Waco, Baylor University, and Discovery Channel. This event will include an onsite celebration at Baylor University’s McLane Stadium in Waco.
Hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected to head to Texas for this event due to the higher probability of sunny skies. Although the eclipse can be viewed from anywhere within the path of totality, many are looking for an eclipse-themed event to give them an enhanced experience and to provide context to the eclipse. In Waco, the eclipse will last for 4 minutes and 13 seconds, which is very near maximum totality.
What sets the Waco eclipse event apart from other eclipse events taking place on April 8, 2024 in the U.S. is its unique combination of presentations by astronomers and science educators, interactive activities, and safe telescope viewing of the Sun as it progresses through the eclipse. The event will take place on the South Plaza and Touchdown Alley areas of Baylor University’s McLane Stadium, which is located on the banks of the Brazos River. Here, event participants will enjoy an unobstructed view of the Sun in the sky. Participants are encouraged to register their telescopes in advance (watch for the registration form!) so that the event planners can ensure they are equipped to view the sun. We request that telescopes be shared with other attendees to enhance the experience for all.
Food trucks, ample restrooms, and unique merchandise will be available for sale.
The planning group is providing free shuttle through Waco Transit so that attendees may park in downtown Waco at no charge, and ride the shuttle buses to the event venue. Accessible parking is also available in a special lot at the Baylor Research and Innovation Center (BRIC), with accessible shuttle buses running all day. Optionally, attendees can pay a small fee ($25 + fees) to park in the stadium parking lot. Parking spaces must be purchased in advance and are expected to sell out.
VIP tickets for the event have already sold out; however, plenty of General Admission eclipse tickets are still available at $20, with children’s tickets at $10. Children 4 and under are free, but be sure to get them a ticket so they get their solar glasses at entry. All tickets include solar glasses. The stadium has a clear bag policy for security.
Additional eclipse-related events will take place during the weekend, including one called “STEAMClipse,” featuring educational exhibits and interactive activities all day on Saturday, April 6. On Sunday, April 7, Waco Symphony is hosting a performance called “Sci-Fi Spectacular: Sun, Moon & Superstars.” This eclipse-themed concert will feature space film music on the eve of the Great American Eclipse. Concert tickets are on sale but are expected to sell out.
Additional activities are still in the planning stage.
Lodging is still available at area hotels and vacation rentals for the eclipse weekend. Not all hotels have made their rooms available, and several hotels are under construction and nearing completion.
This event weekend promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience for all those who attend. Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! For more information, please visit https://eclipseovertexas2024.com.
