Top Total Solar Eclipse Celebrations in Central Texas

On April 8, 2024, a rare celestial event will unfold as the moon aligns perfectly between the sun and the Earth, resulting in a mesmerizing display of darkened skies, shimmering stars, and the sun’s corona encircling the moon’s silhouette. In Austin, the eclipse will commence around 12:17 p.m., reach its peak at 1:36 p.m., and conclude shortly before 3 p.m., while the timing may vary by only a few minutes in other parts of the state. For those seeking an unforgettable adventure, plan your trip around this awe-inspiring event. Discover everything you need to know about the solar eclipse, including viewing locations, hotels, attractions, and special events happening throughout the Hill Country.

Austin

The Long Center

701 W. Riverside Drive

Enjoy a celestial celebration on April 8 at the Long Center from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Hosted by Radiolab’s Molly Webster, the event promises four hours of entertainment, with opportunities for guests to interact with astronomers. Indulge in custom eclipse-themed beer from local Austin breweries. Complimentary eclipse viewing glasses will be provided. Tickets are free and available on their website.

Moody Amphitheater

1401 Trinity St.

See Vampire Weekend at Moody Amphitheater on April 8 at 12 p.m., just three days after the release of their highly anticipated album, ‘Only God Was Above Us’. This unique event coincides with the total solar eclipse, and complimentary glasses will be provided onsite for eclipse viewing. Secure tickets here.

Commodore Perry Estate

4100 Red River St.

Embark on a celestial adventure at the Solar Eclipse camp experience, where luxury meets astronomical wonders at Commodore Perry Estate and Mirasol Springs Ranch in Dripping Springs. With dynamic programming and exclusive eclipse experiences, including family-focused activities and stargazing. Enjoy a full day of immersive activities, astronomy talks, and a Texas-Moroccan-style lunch curated by Chef Bradley and Susana amidst the breathtaking eclipse spectacle on April 8.

Austin Public Library

Various locations

Witness the total solar eclipse on April 8, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., at various Austin Public Library branches. Engage in eclipse-themed crafts and treats suitable for all ages. Complimentary glasses will be available while supplies last.

Otopia

1901 San Antonio St. Unit 1100

Otopia is having the ultimate total solar eclipse rooftop viewing party on April 8, from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. The event features a live DJ, a specialty cocktail menu, and complimentary viewing glasses while supporting UT’s Department of Astronomy. Get your tickets here.

Jester King Brewery

13187 Fitzhugh Road

Experience the eclipse in the stunning Texas Hill Country at Jester King Brewery on April 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a day filled with live psych rock music, artisan craft goods, refreshing mimosas, gourmet food specials, and more. While the event is free, parking passes are $20 and can be booked on their website.

Four Seasons Hotel Austin

98 San Jacinto Blvd.

Join Four Seasons Hotel Austin for a “Celestial Celebration” picnic on April 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Highlights include a gourmet spring BBQ picnic, family-friendly activities, live music, expert commentary by astrophysicist Ryan Hennessy, and the opportunity to view the sun’s chromosphere through a state-of-the-art Lunt Hydrogen-Alpha Solar Telescope. Don’t miss this unforgettable event complete with custom solar-viewing safety glasses and commemorative items.

Meanwhile

3901 Promontory Point Drive

Meanwhile Brewing Co. is celebrating the cosmic event with the release of a special edition black IPA at precisely 1:36 p.m. Guests can also enjoy free live entertainment by a string quartet, along with special giveaways, including eclipse viewing glasses and pint glasses from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. RSVP here.

Austin City Parks

Multiple locations

The University of Texas at Austin is teaming up with the Austin Parks and Recreation Department to ensure everyone can view the solar eclipse on April 8. From 12 – 3 p.m., they’ve got you covered with eclipse glasses and telescopes equipped with solar filters for both independent and guided viewing. Swing by your local park listed here for a free and convenient viewing experience.

Dripping Springs

Camp Lucy

3509 Creek Road

Celebrate celestial wonders and gain educational insights from Dr. Michael McElwain, NASA Research Astrophysicist at Camp Lucy on April 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets for the event include custom-designed commemorative solar eclipse glasses, live music, and delicious food and beverages. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit their website.

Lucky Arrow Retreat

3600 Bell Springs Road

Lucky Arrow Retreat offers the ideal setting to witness the total solar eclipse, boasting expansive skies, a scenic overlook, and optimal viewing conditions. Day passes include access to the picturesque overlook with eclipse-safe viewing glasses, planetarium showings, beer/wine tastings, live music, and more. For a weekend getaway, they have overnight packages with luxury glamping and VIP access to exclusive events.

Sundance Hill Farm

371 Hillview Circle

Nestled amidst alpaca pastures and wide open skies, Sundance Hill Farm offers prime eclipse viewing opportunities in a serene farm atmosphere on April 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. With the VIP package, enjoy access to the alpaca farm, designated eclipse viewing areas, astrology readings, private lounges, and onsite vendors offering snacks and refreshments. Learn more and get tickets here.

Fredericksburg

Wildseed Farms

100 Legacy Drive

Fredericksburg’s iconic Wildseed Farms is throwing an eclipse viewing party at their picturesque grounds from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. on April 8. Admission includes eclipse viewing glasses, two drink tickets, a meal ticket, and access to the famous field of poppies.

Messina Hof Hill Country Winery

9996 US-290

Messina Hof is celebrating the eclipse from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with wine tastings, food offerings, and more. Bring chairs and blankets for the west lawn, and with limited parking, car-pooling is strongly encouraged. Tickets include eclipse glasses, two drink passes, and a commemorative wine glass.

Wedding Oak Winery

Locations in Burnet, Fredericksburg and San Saba

Wedding Oak Winery is having an eclipse viewing party on April 8 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at all three tasting room locations in Burnet, Fredericksburg, and San Saba. Tickets are $200 per person and include exclusive access to prime viewing areas, a bottle of Wedding Oak Winery’s Eclipse 2024 Commemorative Wine, eclipse glasses, a Go Vino Stemless Glass, light bites, and live entertainment.

Burnet

Texas Eclipse Festival at Reveille Peak Ranch

105 County Road 114

Celebrate this rare event that offers over four minutes of totality at Reveille Peak Ranch in Burnet from April 5 to 9. Just a short drive from Austin and San Antonio, this event promises a fusion of cultures with music, art, food, space, and technology. Camp under the stars on the breathtaking festival grounds and enjoy family-friendly activities, including captivating music performances, fascinating space exhibits, and interactive technology activations, all leading up to the total solar eclipse. Learn more and get tickets on their website.

Uplift Vineyard

1411 County Road 119

Uplift Vineyards is celebrating the total solar eclipse with an exclusive all-day affair on April 8 from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Nestled in a 55-acre vineyard, enjoy nearly four and a half minutes of totality in an area renowned for clear skies, complemented by food cooked live fire by James Beard Award Winner, Jesse Griffiths of Dai Due. Tickets include an array of experiences, from a master blending session with renowned winemakers to an astronomer on-site for eclipse talks and surprises from Uplift & Friends.

Traditions Event Venue

7041 N. U.S. Highway 281

Join Traditions Event Venue in Burnet for an unforgettable eclipse celebration on April 8th at its expansive 75-acre location. Enjoy live music, delicious food, and refreshing beverages amidst the stunning scenery. General admission tickets are $25 per day, with free entry for children under 5, and guests can camp for free on the day of the eclipse.

Kerrville

Quiet Valley Ranch

3876 Medina Highway

From April 5 to April 8, the Kerrclipse Music Festival offers an immersive experience filled with live music, art, camping, and enlightening science presentations about eclipses. Indulge in delicious food and drinks while enjoying performances by acclaimed artists, including Golden Dawn Arkestra, Jomo & The Possum Posse, THEBROSFRESH, Good Looks, and many others.

Louise Hays Park

202 Thompson Drive

The Kerrville Eclipse Festival at Louise Hays Park on April 8, will feature speakers from NASA, live performances by Judah and the Lion, and engaging children’s programming, all leading up to 4 minutes and 25 seconds of totality. With free entry and NASA livestreaming the eclipse from the park, this is an event you won’t want to miss. Limited off-site parking is available to reserve ahead of time for a fee, so come early to secure your spot.

The Ridge Marketplace

13439 S Ranch Road 783

The Ridge Marketplace is offering a free eclipse viewing experience with Astronomer Chap Percival from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and guide the audience through each sequence of the eclipse. The event will have live music, delicious food and beverages, food carts, shaved ice, and more.

Where to get solar eclipse glasses in Austin:

Austin Libraries

Starting on Thursday, April 4, solar glasses will be available to the public at all Austin Public Library locations until supplies last. Limit of 2 per person.

The City of Austin

The City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department will distribute 10,000 free eclipse glasses starting on March 11 at recreation centers, senior centers, and the Austin Nature & Science Center.

Retail stores

Stores around Austin such as H-E-B, Lowes, and Home Depot will sell eclipse glasses closer to the event. Check out Solar Eclipse Across America’s full list of suppliers that sell safe solar viewers and filters.