5 Tips For Your Solar Eclipse Party
Whether your get-together is for science or socializing, be sure you have these essentials for this April 8 event.
The stars are aligned for something special this spring. Specifically on April 8, the moon will be perfectly in line and in between our planet and the sun—the brightest star and the center of our solar system. The rare phenomenon is commonly known as a solar eclipse, and (weather permitting) New Jerseyans will have a chance to see a partial space show.
Just like many of us celebrated the arrival of Comet Neowise and the planet parade a few years ago, next month’s solar eclipse—which will be viewable across North America—has become the next big event. Some are using it as an educational opportunity (young astronomers at area schools are petitioning for a day off to examine the eclipse); however, many more see it as a chance to witness a once-in-a-lifetime event with family and friends.
If you’re thinking about hosting an eclipse party next month, we have a few ideas that will make your celestial soirée:
When you want to view: We’ve always been taught to never look directly at a solar eclipse because staring at the sun’s intense light can cause damage to the retina of your eyes. Special solar eclipse glasses can be purchased through Amazon, or swing by Lowe’s to pick up a pair of certified paper glasses.
When you want to photograph: If you want to do more than safely observe the eclipse, try photographing the rarity (it will be decades before the next one is viewable in our area). Shutterbugs using a camera can invest in Celestron’s EclipsSmart, observing and imaging kit, available at Best Buy. It includes a pair of special glasses and a photo filter that works on smartphones, point-and-shoots and DSLR cameras. Those with more questions about photographing the solar eclipse can contact the pros at Bergen County Camera in Westwood for a little advice.
When you want to snack: Your guests will want to snack while waiting for the moon to make its moves. With that in mind, be sure you have plenty of snacks on hand. Charcuterie boards are great for grazing, whether a company like Plated By D creates one for you or you build your own with ingredients from shops such as Prime Wine Cellar. And be sure to send them home with space-themed candy from Westwood Candy Company and munchies like Milky Way bars, Moon Pies, Sun Chips and Eclipse chewing gum.
When you get chilly: As long as Mother Nature cooperates, April 8 should be a nice spring day. (The partial eclipse starts around 2 p.m.) But don’t let that fool you: There can be a sudden drop in temperature when the sun disappears behind the moon. For friends who forgot to bring a jacket, be sure you have extra throws like this sun-themed piece by Little Co., available at Kohl’s, to keep everyone warm.
When the kids want to have fun: To keep kids interested during the eclipse party, there are books like Jayme Sandberg’s Total Solar Eclipse: A Stellar Friendship Story and games such as magnetic Space Bingo that will keep the fun going all day long.
Not into hosting a party but still want to be around other eclipse enthusiasts? Check with your local library for official gatherings and celebrations on April 8. For instance, Hackensack residents can attend a viewing at the Johnson Public Library, while the Glen Rock Library is offering its residents free solar eclipse glasses (while supplies last) during the week leading up to the event. Larger parties that are a quick drive from Bergen County include The Great Eclipse event at Liberty Science Center in Jersey City and a meetup at the New Jersey Botanical Garden in Ringwood.
Are you hosting an eclipse party? Tell us what your plans are on Instagram @bergenmagnj.
