Total Eclipse of the Sun 2024: A FREE Solar Eclipse Viewing Party

Total Eclipse of the Sun 2024:

A FREE Solar Eclipse Viewing Party

Monday, April 8, 12:30-4:30pm (Eclipse from 2:08-4:35pm)

In 2017 a solar eclipse passed over a large portion of the US, bringing with it astronomical excitement, plenty of celebration, and a stunning display in Philadelphia. On April 8 this phenomenon returns, and the Wagner welcomes you in marking the occasion! Join us for activities and multiple opportunities to view the eclipse for astronomers of all ages.

Caused by the shadow of the Moon lining up to temporarily blot out the Sun, solar eclipses have fascinated people for centuries. While the Sun will be darkened during the eclipse, just like all other times it is extremely dangerous to look directly at it. Nonetheless there are still ways to safely observe!

• The Wagner will loan out a limited supply of special eclipse-viewing glasses. These will be available first come, first served and will need to be returned afterward, but sharing in the spirit of community is encouraged!

• Use a specially-modified telescope, or learn how to make your own pinhole projector, a clever way to use the Sun’s light to see all of the eclipse with none of the pain!

• Visit the Wagner’s historic lecture hall for a livestream of the eclipse from NASA.

While eclipses actually occur somewhat frequently, they are not always viewable, making the times when people do get to see them all the more significant. Philadelphia is expected to see 90% coverage of the Sun, and won’t see an event like this again until 2078, so this is one celestial celebration you won’t want to miss!

This event is FREE and open to all, but advance registration is recommended for capacity reasons. Registration does not guarantee eclipse viewing glasses or entry as supplies and space are limited.

Please enter through the outdoor gate on 17th Street. Most activities will take place outdoors and the Lecture Hall will be open.

Things to Know Before Your Visit

• Masks are recommended but not required.

• There is no coat check or place to stow personal items – please travel light.

• To protect the specimens and our historic interiors, photography is not allowed in the museum and food and drink are not permitted in the building.

•The Institute does not have a parking lot. Street parking on Montgomery Avenue and 17th Street is free and metered parking is available on Bouvier Street and Cecil B. Moore.

A dream that keeps growing…

In 1855, William Wagner had a dream of providing free science education to anyone who wanted to learn, regardless of background or ability to pay. Today, the Wagner offers more programs to more people than ever before! Your support helps us provide free education, not only through the museum, but through a wide range of courses, lectures, field trips, and children’s science programs. Donations also assist us in caring for the museum and library collections and in preserving our wonderful building, which was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1990. To learn more about what we do please visit our website.

Registration Information

In keeping with its original charter, admission is FREE—donations are suggested to ensure the future and quality of Wagner’s free education programs and to preserve its National Landmark building and collections.

Suggested Donations

$25/Family

$10/adult

$5/student

For any questions, please email communications@wagnerfreeinstitute.org or call 215-763-6529 x13.

If you would like to check your membership status or become a member, please email KellyT@wagnerfreeinstitute.org or call 215-763-6529 x11.

Image: an assortment of eclipse fans from our last event, and a historical lantern slide image of an eclipse from days gone by.