The total solar eclipse, which has been anticipated by celestial enthusiasts for years, attracted approximately one million people to the city of Niagara Falls alone. Photo Credit: Steven Levitt
Monday, April 8, 2024, provided much of North America with an astronomical spectacle that will not recur in this century. The total solar eclipse, which has been anticipated by celestial enthusiasts for years, attracted approximately one million people to the city of Niagara Falls alone.
Dave Kirsh is an Astronomical Lecturer at Toronto Metropolitan University and was on tap for the eclipse in Niagara Falls. Kirsh, who viewed a partial solar eclipse on May 10, 1994, says that since it has been one hundred years since the last total solar eclipse was visible in this region, it was, until yesterday, very unlikely that any of us would know someone who has seen one.
“To have an eclipse this close to us is a once-in-a-lifetime treat,” Kirsh said in a recent media availability for TMU. “And not only are we in approximately the right place, it’s happening conveniently in the middle of the afternoon.”
Niagara Parks Chief Executive Officer David Adames was also in attendance and provided remarks.
“Together with our partners, from police to destination stakeholders, we have been planning for the total solar eclipse in Niagara Falls for the past year,” Adames said. “There’s been programming throughout the weekend, including our partnership with NASA and CSA, culminating with a fantastic day. What a great way to start the 2024 tourism season.”
In one of the most historic moments of the day, 309 people took part in a Niagara City Cruise that broke a previously held Guinness Book record for the most number of people dressed up as the sun (287).
“Congratulations to everyone involved, making this special day even more memorable,” Niagara Falls Mayor Jim Diodati said in a social media post celebrating the accomplishment.
Katelynn Hilborn is a local resident who joined the Niagara Falls watch party.
“Being able to witness a total solar eclipse was such a surreal experience,” Hilborn shared with The Niagara Independent. “After walking down to the Falls, the atmosphere surrounding me was very electric. Many people were visiting from out of Canada as well, which was very interesting to see how an event like this attracts people from all corners of the world.”
“Although it was busy, I think what made it memorable was that it had a sense of calmness to it as people of all ages and backgrounds lounged around on the ground waiting to see the eclipse through the clouds, with the Niagara Symphony playing good tunes in the background,” said Hilborn. “I’m glad I made it down to witness such a historic event.”
The city of Niagara Falls has warned residents to expect delays in the hours and days following the eclipse, as hundreds of thousands of visitors gradually return to their homes. Updates will be posted through municipal and regional media channels of communication.
Nick Redekop completed his Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Labour Studies at Brock University. He has previously served in municipal and federal politics. In his free time, Nick enjoys following sports, taking part in outdoor activities, and reading biographies. Nick resides in Niagara Falls
