Prepare for a total eclipse of the heart… or in this case, the sun.
For the first time in 146 years, next spring Central Texas will lie in the path of a total solar eclipse, which happens when the moon completely blocks the face of the sun as it passes between the sun and earth.
Next year’s eclipse — which takes place Monday, April 8, 2024 — will pass through North America, entering on the west coast of Mexico and exiting through Nova Scotia, Canada. This means Texans will be the first Americans to see the event.
Austin lies in the path of the eclipse, but the view will be better and longer in the Hill Country, with totality reaching nearby towns like Fredericksburg around 1:30 p.m.
It’s said to be a stunning sight, so check out these nine ways to enjoy it.
Texas Eclipse | Friday, April 5-Tuesday, April 9 | Times vary | Reveille Peak Ranch, 105 Co. Rd. 114, Burnet | Price TBD | This all-out music and art festival will feature immersive soundscapes from 13 countries, interactive art installations, space and technology expos, and science-oriented panels.
The Fredericksburg Hot Air Balloon Solar Eclipse Festival | Monday, April 8 | 3-8 p.m. | Grapetown Vineyard, 8142 Old San Antonio Rd., Fredericksburg | $20-$500 | Between hot air balloon rides, a farm-to-table dinner, wine tasting, and live music, what doesn’t this eclipse party have?
Hill Country Solar Eclipse Fest | Sunday, April 7-Tuesday, April 9 | Times vary | Lucky Arrow Retreat, 3600 Bell Springs Rd., Dripping Springs | $575-$2,400 | This two-night glamping festival includes viewing glasses and access to heated swimming pools, hot tubs, and fire pits.
Eclipse Over Texas: Live from Waco | Monday, April 8 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m. | McLane Stadium, 1001 S. MLK Jr. Blvd., Waco | $20-$75 | This educational experience includes presentations from astronomers and scientists, a guided viewing, and interactive activities.
Total Solar Eclipse at Pedernales Cellars | Monday, April 8 | 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | Pedernales Cellars, 2916 Upper Albert Rd., Stonewall | $50-$65 | View the eclipse from its center line — where totality is longest — and learn from NASA astrophysicist Dr. Shawn Brooks at this all-day party.
Total Eclipse Experience | Saturday, April 6-Tuesday, April 9 | Times vary | Cave Without a Name, 325 Kreutzberg Rd., Boerne | $170-$520 | Celebrate the event with a three-day camping experience, complete with live music, cave tours, hiking, and cutting geodes.
Dam 2024 Eclipse | Monday, April 8 | 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. | 507 Hi-Line Dr., Buchanan Dam | $24-$48 | Watch the event with provided eclipse glasses and music.
Total Eclipse Viewing Party | Sunday, April 7-Tuesday, April 9 | Times vary | 300 County Rd. 111, Lampasas | $750 | This RV-oriented party begins with a barbecue dinner and ends with live music and food after the eclipse.
2024 International Astrophysics Conference | Friday, April 5-Monday, April 8 | Times vary | Baylor University | Price TBD | Educate yourself on current knowledge related to astrophysics, solar physics, and other astronomical subjects at this conference featuring speakers from around the world.
