On April 8, 2024, the Adirondacks will be one of the best locations in New York state and the entire Northeast to view an exceptional event, a total solar eclipse.
Total solar eclipses happen over the same place on earth about once every 400 years; you won't want to miss this!
When is it?
April 8, 2024 from 2:13–5:11pm, with totality occurring at 3:26–3:29pm
Where is it?
Essex, NY (and all of the Adirondacks!)
Main Viewing Locations
Main Street, Essex: The street (between the intersection with Rte 22 and School St) will be closed to traffic from noon to 4pm so eclipse viewers will be able to set up and watch the event. Enjoy specials and events at the Main Street businesses like the Pink Pig, Barn Door Tavern, Essex Ice Cream Cafe, Adirondack Art Association, and The Essex Inn. See details below! Parking for this location includes the town lot near the Belden Noble Memorial Library (across from the Essex-Charlotte Ferry), and along Elm Street, School Street, and Church Street.
Whitcomb's Backyard: From 1–4pm, watch the eclipse from the beautiful Whitcomb's backyard, next to The Whallonsburg Grange. Enjoy grab and go lunch provided by River & Rails Deli, peruse a special art show in Whitcomb's new gallery space, experiment with different eclipse viewing techniques, and view the eclipse itself up close with the help of telescope and imaging expert Kevin O'Neill! Eclipse T-shirts, Essex swag, and eclipse glasses available for a suggested donation.
Parking for this event is limited, so plan accordingly! Spots will be available in the Grange and Whitcomb's parking lots.
Both Essex viewing locations are FREE of charge!
More Events and Attractions
Friday, April 5
The Barn Door Tavern: Piotr Barcz will play ragtime, stride and swing piano from 6–10pm.
North Boquet Mountain Hike: Join Champlain Area Trails for a guided hike beginning at 9am. For more info or to register click here.
Forest Bathing at Essex Quarry: Join local meditation leader Peter Beuf for a guided session of forest bathing, sponsored by Champlain Area Trails. For more info or to register click here.
The Barn Door Tavern: Come down for a game night for all visitors and locals including a special round of Eclipse Trivia and live music. Open 6–10pm.
The Barn Door Tavern: Serving the great selection of drinks you know and love from 2–7pm. Country music from Mark Henry 2-5 pm and folk singer Tim Springer 6-8pm.
Village Gallery: Open 10am–5pm, featuring a special collection of "Eclipse" artworks and paintings by Helen Goetz & Stephen Zeitfinger.
Split Rock Wildway Hike: Join rewilding advocate John Davis at 10am–12pm for a 3-mile hike in Split Rock Wildway in Westport/Essex.
The Barn Door Tavern: Open from 10am–10pm, stop by for street food style snacks, souvenirs, and the usual beer and wine selection. Live music after the eclipse!
The Essex Inn: Open from 3–9pm with to-go options and a special dinner and drinks menu (reservations recommended).
Lake Champlain Yoga and Wellness: Come get your zen on and honor the Sun with 108 rounds of Sun Salutations, then celebrate with a viewing party featuring free eclipse glasses, eclipse shirts, bubbly champagne, and tasty hors d'oeuvres. Make a reservation in advance at www.lakechamplainyogaandwellness.com
