Prepare for a total eclipse of the heart… or in this case, the sun.
For the first time in 146 years, next spring, Central Texas will lie in the path of a total solar eclipse. Next year’s planetary event — which takes place Monday, April 8, 2024 — will pass through North America, entering on the west coast of Mexico and exiting through Nova Scotia, Canada. This means Texans will be the first Americans to see the event.
The North Western half of San Antonio lies in the path of the eclipse, but the view will be better and longer in the Hill Country, with totality reaching nearby towns like Fredericksburg, Bandera, and Blanco around 1:30 p.m.
It’s said to be a stunning site that everyone will want to see, so planning ahead to secure your spot (and view) will be critical. Here are eight ways to enjoy it the 2024 total solar eclipse in Central Texas.
Kerville Eclipse Festival | Monday, April 8 | Park opens at 7:30 a.m. | Louise Hay Park, 202 Thompson Dr. | Free | Celebrate the space event with keynote speakers, live music, family-friendly activities, and witness the eclipse totality.
The Fredericksburg Hot Air Balloon Solar Eclipse Festival | Monday, April 8 | 3-8 p.m. | Grapetown Vineyard, 8142 Old San Antonio Rd., Fredericksburg | $20-$500 | Experience hot air balloon rides, a farm-to-table dinner, wine tasting, and live music.
Total Solar Eclipse | Monday, April 8 | 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. | Pedernales Cellars| $50-$65 | View the eclipse from its center line and learn from NASA astrophysicist Dr. Shawn Brooks at this all-day party.
Were you able to catch the Beaver Blood Moon eclipse?
Photo by Zoltan Tasi
Hill Country Solar Eclipse Fest | Sunday, April 7-Tuesday, April 9 | Times vary | Lucky Arrow Retreat, 3600 Bell Springs Rd., Dripping Springs | $575-$2,400 | This two-night glamping festival includes viewing glasses and access to heated swimming pools, hot tubs, and fire pits.
Total Eclipse Experience | Saturday, April 6-Tuesday, April 9 | Times vary | Cave Without a Name, 325 Kreutzberg Rd., Boerne | $170-$520 | Celebrate the event with a three-day camping experience, complete with live music, cave tours, hiking, and cutting geodes.
Dam 2024 Eclipse | Monday, April 8 | 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. | 507 Hi-Line Dr., Buchanan Dam | $24-$48 | Watch the event with provided eclipse glasses and music.
Ground Zero MusicFest | Friday, April 5-Tuesday, April 9 | Times vary | Mansfield Park, Bandera | $60-$250 | Jam out to this weekend-long music festival and camp out to see the eclipse.
Eclipse Utopia | Sunday, April 7-Monday, April 8 | 1555 Lemond Rd, Four Sisters Ranch | $20-$800 | Glamp it up at this ranch and stay for the weekend to watch the eclipse.
