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On April 8, join Mayor Marianne Meed Ward and Members of Council at Spencer Smith Park to witness the total solar eclipse.
The total solar eclipse, where the moon completely covers the sun, will be visible throughout Burlington offering a unique opportunity to observe this natural wonder. The eclipse will begin in the early afternoon at 2:04 p.m. reaching full coverage at 3:18 p.m. and begin gradually dissipating, wrapping up by 4:31 p.m.
Residents are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets, water and snacks.
Event Details
- Date: Monday, April 8
- Time: 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
- Mayor Marianne Meed Ward will share welcoming remarks at 3 p.m.
- Location: Spencer Smith Park
- Attendees: Mayor Marianne Meed Ward and Members of Council
Residents are reminded that a solar eclipse is best seen in clear weather conditions. While the City is prepared to host residents at Spencer Smith Park either way, the eclipse will not be as visible in cloudy, or rainy weather conditions.
Eclipse Eye Glasses
To help prepare spectators for this event, the City has partnered with the Department of Physics and Astronomy at McMaster University to distribute eclipse glasses for free.
Eclipse glasses will be handed out by City staff for free at Spencer Smith Park at the gazebo on Monday, April 8 at 11 a.m., while supplies last.
Burlington Green labelled bins will be place throughout the park so that visitors can dispose of their glasses properly after the eclipse. Materials from the glasses will be recycled appropriately.
Eye Safety
- It is not safe to look at the sun without eclipse glasses. Looking at even a small sliver before or after the eclipse without eye protection can be harmful to your vision. Health impacts may include retinal burns, blurred vision, and loss of eyesight (immediate or delayed onset).
- Glasses with specialized filters adhering to the ISO 12312-2 international standard can be worn to prevent eye damage. Glasses should be inspected for wrinkles or scratches ahead of use and should not be used if damaged/scratched.
- Parents/guardians/caregivers must supervise children at all times during the eclipse. Ensure children keep their glasses on.
- Read and follow all warnings and instructions on the inside of the eclipse glasses.
- Do not run/walk, or use a bike/scooter, skateboard or motor vehicle with eclipse glasses on.
Ministry of Health Safety Information
Travel Tips
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With higher-than-normal volumes of visitors in the downtown core on April 8, motorists should consider taking alternate routes around downtown to avoid traffic delays.
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Carpooling and public transportation are encouraged to minimize traffic congestion.
- Motorists are reminded to drive with extra caution. If driving, have headlights turned ON for entire duration.
- While driving, avoid looking at the eclipse. Keep your eyes on the road to safely operate your vehicle and avoid collisions.
- Expect increases in traffic and road congestion. Plan ahead, fill your gas tank, and have snacks, water, entertainment, and first-aid supplies on hand.
- If travelling to view the eclipse, plan to arrive to your viewing destination early.
- Be extra mindful of distracted drivers and pedestrians.
Parking Information
Information about parking in downtown Burlington is available at: www.burlington.ca/downtownparking
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