Photo courtesy of Jongsun Lee/Unsplash

The 2024 solar eclipse, set to occur on April 8, 2024, is anticipated to be a once-in-a-lifetime celestial event for many observers, especially those in Hamilton County. This eclipse will be a total solar eclipse, where the moon completely covers the sun, casting a shadow on Earth and turning day into temporary night. What makes this event particularly remarkable is the path of totality, which will span across North America, from Mexico through the United States and into Canada. 

This provides a rare opportunity for millions of people in densely populated areas across the continent to witness a total solar eclipse without extensive travel. The last time a total solar eclipse traversed this region was in 2017, and the next one won’t be until 2045, making the 2024 eclipse an extraordinary opportunity for a generation to experience one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. Check out our list of watch parties here in the Central Indiana area! 

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The HC Tavern + Kitchen, 1933 Lounge, Harry & Izzy’s Northside

Time: 12p – 5p

Participating patio locations: Harry & Izzy’s Northside, The HC Tavern + Kitchen, 1933 Lounge Fishers

Details: Join one of these restaurants for a special celestial lunch to witness the event of a lifetime! Each restaurant offers specialty solar eclipse cocktails, lively music, and complimentary solar eclipse glasses to view the eclipse. Reservations are encouraged. Please call to reserve a spot on the patio.

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Hotel Carmichael Viewing Party

Time: 12p-4p

Price: $75

Details:

Join Hotel Carmichael as they gather on the Patio of Vivante, across from Carmel’s Carter Green, to witness the magic of a Total Solar Eclipse in Carmel, IN! T

TICKET INCLUDES:

• Food Buffet
• Live Music
• Cash Bar
• Solar Eclipse Glasses
• Custom Eclipse Wristband

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Conner Prairie

Time: 10a – 5p

Price: VIP: $150 Nonmember: $55 Member: $40

Details: Indulge your senses as you take in live performances from musical acts, dance companies, and enlightened talks from renowned experts who will shed light on the science behind this mesmerizing event. Ticketholders will receive a pair of complimentary eclipse glasses for guests two or older.

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Moon Market at Strawtown Koteewi Park

Location: Strawtown Koteewi Park, Taylor Center of Natural History

Time: 12p to 5p

Price: $5 ($10 for out-of-county registrants)

Details: Besides the small artisan market, the Taylor Center will provide eclipse-themed crafts and a Total Solar Eclipse educational display. All registered attendees will receive approved eclipse-viewing safety glasses, a reserved spot in the mowed lawn to the east of the Taylor Center, and will have the option to tailgate. The Moon Market and associated crafts will be held in and around the Taylor Center with optimal viewing on the “little sledding hill” to the west of the Taylor Farmhouse.

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Tailgate at Ruoff Music Center

Time: 10a – 5p

Price: $100 per vehicle, limit 8 tickets

Details: The Total Eclipse Tailgate will feature live entertainment, food trucks, and on-site activities including an inflatable obstacle course, a special guest speaker from NASA, and a DJ-inspired dance party.

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Grand Park

Time: 10a – 6p

Price: Tickets are only available for pre-purchase and are $25 per standard-size vehicle. Overnight RV and camper parking will be available for $100.

Details: Attendees can enjoy food and drinks from food trucks, a concert with the 1985 Band, attractions and inflatables, a Moon Pie eating contest judged by Westfield’s own – Joey Chestnut, and total darkness from the eclipse. Grand Universe will have viewing telescopes on-site to educate attendees about the solar eclipse and its history. Special guest, Dr. Mark SubbaRao, Director of NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, will also be on-site to guide us through the afternoon.