You’re invited to witness the spectacular phenomenon of a total solar eclipse this spring in New Brunswick - rated one of the best in the world for viewing. On April 8th, 2024, the sun will be completely blocked by the moon in Fredericton, Woodstock, Florenceville- Bristol and Miramichi, as the path of 100% totality passes through their skies. This extraordinary cosmic event is reason to celebrate with events planned for stargazers throughout the entire weekend.
What is a solar eclipse?
The moon moves in a constant orbit around the earth, and the earth moves in a constant orbit around the sun. Sometimes, this orbital pattern causes the moon to block the sun’s light from reaching earth – this is called a solar eclipse.
What does totality mean?
During a total eclipse, the sun and earth must be in a direct line, causing the moon to cast a shadow over the earth. This shadow is very narrow and referred to as the path of totality. Those lucky enough to find themselves in the path of totality will experience complete darkness as the moon blocks the sun.
Where is the best place to view the complete solar eclipse?
Western New Brunswick Region (Canterbury, Meductic, Woodstock, Hartland, Florenceville-Bristol, Perth-Andover, Plaster Rock, New Denmark, Grand Falls)
The first entry point in New Brunswick for the solar eclipse is Florenceville-Bristol. Be the first to experience the phenomenon with famous astronaut, Col. Chris Hadfield in attendance, giving a special two-hour speech after David Hunter’s high altitude balloon launch.
For more information, visit their website, Instagram and Facebook.
Accommodations
Florenceville-Bristol
Shamrock Train Suites
Amsterdam Inn Florenceville-Bristol
Woodstock
Best Western Woodstock
Howard Johnston by Wyndham Woodstock
Additions to Your Trip
Florenceville-Bristol
Potato World Museum
Hunter Brothers Farm
Shiktehawk Walking Trail
Woodstock
Woodstock Farm & Craft Market
Maliseet Trail
Honourable Charles Connell House
Meduxnekeag Valley Nature Preserve
Grab a Bite
Florenceville-Bristol
Exit 153 Restaurant
On the Boardwalk Cafe & Wine
The French Fry Hut
Woodstock
The River Restaurant
Creek Village Gallery & Cafe
Thai Hut
Walter’s Table
Fredericton
New Brunswick’s capital is pulling out all the stops for the solar eclipse with special events planned for the entire weekend, leading up to a public observation of the eclipse! Their organizing committee has prepared a weekend of fun beginning on Saturday, April 6, that includes eclipse-themed shows at the Planetarium, kids workshops, STEM exhibits, Astronomy sessions, Indigenous storytelling and more, all set in a festive atmosphere. Special eclipse viewing glasses will be provided for Monday’s main event.
For more information, please visit frederictoncapitalregion.ca/see-do/festivals-events/calendar-events/solar-eclipse-2024.
Accommodations
Delta Fredericton
Chateau Fredericton
Radisson Kingswood
Best Western Plus Fredericton
Additions to Your Trip
Fredericton Taproom Trail
Mactaquac Provincial Park
Beaverbrook Art Gallery
Grab a Bite
Isaac’s Way
Wolastoq Wharf
The Pickle Jar
Byblos
Miramichi
The riverside city of Miramichi will also be hosting a weekend full of eclipse-themed activities for stargazers to enjoy, with an Astronomy Conference and music festival from Friday, April 5 - 7th. On April 6th, they will be hosting a drone light show, and on the 8th an eclipse viewing celebration with food vendors, music and family friendly activities.
For more information, please visit https://www.discovermiramichi.com/tet-2024.
Accommodations
The Rodd Miramichi River
Travelodge by Wyndham Miramichi
Ramada by Wyndham Miramichi
Grab a Bite
1809 Restaurant & Bar
O’Donaghue’s Irish Pub
Namaste Bistro
Gabi’s Pie Shoppe
Doaktown
The charming fishing town of Doaktown, New Brunswick is nestled between Miramichi and Fredericton. Doaktown is the place to be for the eclipse with the all-inclusive Sky Experience 2024 taking place from April 7-9.
Here, you’ll find an aspiring astronomer’s dream agenda: stargazing with high-end telescopes, speakers like Trevor Jones and Ashley Northcotte, immersive astrophotography experiences, and an astrotourism destinations pavilion with retailers and astronomy clubs.
Book an all-inclusive package for two-and-a-half days of activities, presentations, accommodations, meals, morning yoga, and a star party. Astronomy East 2024 will also be taking place in the Miramichi area from April 5-7 – stay tuned for more details.
Accommodations
The Sky Experience has packages with both Storeytown Cottages and The Ledges Inn.
Additions to Your Trip
Doak Provincial Heritage Site
Atlantic Salmon Museum
Route 8 High Wheeler Antiques & Collectibles
Grab a Bite
The Lower Ledge Gastropub
Parker’s Country Diner and Takeout
Bett’s Village Family Restaurant
What preventative safety measures do I need to view the eclipse?
Except when the moon is completely covering the sun, it is not safe to look directly at the eclipse. Special eye protection is required for solar viewing.
Even viewing the sun through a camera lens, binoculars, or a telescope without a solar filter can result in severe eye injury. Make sure to purchase your safe solar viewing glasses well in advance so you can enjoy the eclipse experience safely.
Each of the events listed above will have free safety glasses available.
New Brunswick Invites You to Our Prime Solar Eclipse Viewing Location
In 2024, New Brunswick will become a celestial stage for a rare and awe-inspiring event, and we can’t wait to invite you. As we prepare to witness this extraordinary incredible occurrence, it's clear that New Brunswick's natural beauty and welcoming communities will create an ideal backdrop for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
The total solar eclipse in New Brunswick promises to be a moment of wonder, unity, and profound connection to the universe. It's a reminder that even in our fast-paced world, there are still events that can captivate our collective imagination and bring us together to marvel at the wonders of the world.
So, mark your calendars, plan your trip, and get ready to be a part of this historic moment in New Brunswick — an experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who are fortunate enough to witness it.
