Here’s what Akron has planned for the total solar eclipse

Celeste Houmard
·2 min read

*Attached video: Total Solar Eclipse, What will weather be that day?

AKRON, Ohio (WJW) – The city of Akron has released its official plans for the total solar eclipse on April 8.

The city’s community centers, parks and downtown are going to have viewing areas for residents, Akron Mayor Shammas Malik announced in a press release.

All about the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse in Ohio

The main event will be held in downtown Akron outside at 510 S. Main St. There is going to be a balloon artist, musicians, a reptile show, face painting and more. Food and beverages, including alcohol, will also be available for purchase.

Guests will also have to preregister for this event to reserve an eclipse bag with eclipse glasses and other items inside.

According to the release, there will be nine community centers open for the eclipse on April 8 from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. They will each have about 200 pairs of eclipse glasses for guests.

Community centers included:

  • Ellet – 2449 Wedgewood Dr.

  • Firestone Park – 1480 Girard St.

  • Joy Park – 825 Fuller Street

  • Kenmore – 880 Kenmore Boulevard

  • Lawton Street – 1225 Lawton Street

  • Mason Park – 700 E. Exchange St.

  • Northwest – 1730 Shatto Avenue

  • Reservoir Park – 1735 Hillside Terrace

  • Summit Lake – 380 W. Crosier Street

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Four large parks will also be open for viewing in Akron including the Patterson Park ballfields, the Akron Fulton Airport ballfields, the Copley Road Soccer Complex and Prentiss Park.

Park guests will be able to head to the viewing area for free, but will have to preregister for a spot and a guaranteed pair of glasses.

Guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets to all the total solar eclipse viewing locations.

The eclipse begins partially around 1:59 p.m. with the moon beginning to move over the sun, according to NASA. Totality will happen at about 3:13 p.m. and end at around 3:17 p.m.

Guide: Total solar eclipse events and watch parties

“No matter where you are in the city of Akron, you’ll have a great view of the total solar eclipse,” Malik said. “With safety as our top priority, it’s important to offer options for our residents close to home to experience this rare event. Akron Police and Akron Fire will be helping to keep traffic moving throughout the day as best as possible but residents and guests to our city are reminded not to park on the sides of highways or expressways. Instead, come to one of our many viewing options in the city and enjoy this amazing phenomenon that you can witness in the path of totality right here in Akron.”

Downtown city services will be limited in person after noon on April 8, according to the release.

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