AUSTIN, Texas — In 1397, parts of Central Texas experienced a brief period of darkness when the moon completely covered the sun.
That rare moment, a total solar eclipse, hasn't happened in our area for more than 600 years. But on April 8, 2024, Austin and surrounding cities will once again be in the path of totality.
To celebrate this historic event, and in support of the Simons Foundation's "In the Path of Totality Initiative," Waterloo Greenway, The Long Center for the Performing Arts and Fusebox have partnered to create a 3-day local celebration.
On April 7, attendees can visit the Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park, located at 1401 Trinity St., for live music, poetry, stories and more as part of "The Universe in Verse" event, curated by writer Maria Popova. Doors open to the public at 5 p.m. and at 6 p.m., attendees will hear from On Being podcast host and creator Krista Tippett, as well as musician David Byrne to start out the weekend.
On April 8, the Long Center will host a free total eclipse viewing party, with doors open at 11 a.m. The totality is expected at around 1:36 p.m.
Finally, on April 9, Radiolab's Molly Webster will lead children and families through a reading of her book, "Little Black Hole." The event, which is free and open to the public, will begin at 10 a.m. at the Meredith Heritage Tree Deck at Waterloo Park.
Another total solar eclipse won't happen again for Texas until 2044, so this year might just be the perfect chance to purchase some glasses and look to the sky.