New York State is gearing up for a total solar eclipse to cross the sky on Monday, April 8, 2024! A total eclipse occurs when the moon crosses between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow that makes the day temporarily turn to dusk. Here in Albany County, we'll be able to see a deep partial eclipse peaking at 96.9% coverage of the solar spectacle. Make sure to mark your calendar, grab your eclipse glasses, and scroll on for an ultimate guide to celebrating this rare cosmic phenomenon in Albany County.
The partial eclipse in Albany County begins at 2:12 PM reaching a peak at 3:26 PM and ending at 4:36 PM.
Places to Pick Up Eclipse Glasses
During a partial solar eclipse, it's important to wear eye protection when looking up at the sun in order to avoid permanent eye damage. Take a peek at some of the locations throughout the region where you can pick up some solar eclipse glasses.
Official I Love NY Eclipse Glasses
Official eclipse glasses from I Love NY are available at New York State Welcome Centers and select Thruway Rest Stops. In the Capital-Saratoga region, find the glasses at the Capital Region Welcome Center in Hannacroix, NY.
Warby Parker
As an organization specializing in vision and eyeglasses, Warby Parker is ensuring eclipse viewers can safely view the phenomenon by offering free, eclipse glasses at each of their locations. Pick up a pair today at their Stuyvesant Plaza location.
Common Roots Brewing Company Albany Outpost
Stop by Common Roots Brewing Company's Albany location to snag a pair of eclipse viewing glasses when you purchase a 4-pack of their Moon Veil IPA. This commemorative brew features flavors that will take you over the moon with notes of orange, peach, and apricot. The glasses are also available to purchase individually for $2.
Empire State Plaza Visitor Center and Gift Shop
Stop by the Empire State Plaza and pick up eclipse glasses for $2 each!
Downtown Albany BID
Grab your free, commemorative #AlbToTheCore eclipse glasses on Eclipse Day, April 8, during the Downtown Albany BID's Eclipse Day on the Skyway. The first 500 guests will receive these one-of-a-kind, purple glasses decorated with Albany icons.
Eclipse Events
Eclipse excitement in Albany is astronomical! Join community organizations and scientific institutions for a series of educational events, watch-parties, and eclipse-based activities.
Native American Eclipse Stories
April 3 | 11 AM | New York State Museum
Before the eclipse on Monday, join the New York State Museum for this free, all-ages event exploring the eclipse through the beliefs, traditions, and protocols of various Native American tribes. These legends date back centuries and continue to hold importance in Native American culture today. Onondaga storyteller Perry Ground brings these stories to life in an interactive experience.
Eclipse Experience: Out of this World Cooking Demonstration
April 3 | 7 PM to 8 PM | Online
Whip up some excitement for the eclipse by preparing a delicious dish demonstrated by students and faculty of the Culinary and Hospitality Program of Paul Smith's College. This online experience is hosted by the Albany Public Library, registration is required to receive a link!
Eclipse Day on the Skyway
April 8 | 12 PM to 4 PM | Albany Skyway
One of the best eclipse viewing spots in downtown Albany, venture onto the Albany Skyway for this free event hosted by the Downtown Albany BID. This afternoon party includes commemorative Albany themed eclipse viewing glasses and music provided by a live DJ. Enjoy ice cream from Boozy Moo while waiting for the show to start and snack on some popcorn during the eclipse provided by ParkAlbany.
Dudley at Siena Eclipse Day Celebration
April 8 | 1 PM to 5 PM | Dudley Observatory at Siena College
Celebrate the crescent sun at the centuries-old Dudley Observatory located on the Siena College Campus. Dudley astronomers will host demos for safely viewing the solar spectacle, educate on the science behind the eclipse, and offer themed science and art activities.
Astronomy in Albany: Ten Broeck Mansion Talk & Eclipse Viewing Gathering
April 8 | 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM | Ten Broeck Mansion
Though this celestial celebration is currently sold out, it is not too late to join the wait list! Ten Broeck mansion has a long history in relation to astronomy. Uncover artifacts and texts related to space and time-keeping from centuries ago. Then, watch the eclipse amidst the beautiful backdrop of the Ten Broeck gardens.
Guilderland Public Library Eclipse Viewing Events
April 8 | 1 PM to 4 PM | Guilderland Public Library
Stick indoors to view a livestream of the total solar eclipse at the Guilderland Public Library. The livestream presented by NASA showcases the total eclipse at multiple locations within the path of totality throughout the country. Or head outdoors with the library team at 3 PM to view the partial eclipse in-person in the upper parking lot.
Solar Eclipse Extravaganza!
April 8 | 2 to 4:30 PM | Albany Public Library Howe Branch
The cosmic phenomenon on April 8 happens once in a blue moon, celebrate with an eclipse viewing and other lunar-themed activities at APL's Howe Branch. Smile among the stars in their paper moon photobooth, enjoy lunar poetry, and listen to themed music.
Livestream the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse at Pine Hills
April 8 | 3 PM to 4:30 PM | Albany Public Library Pine Hills Branch
Want to see the full total eclipse right in Albany County? Head indoors to the Pine Hills branch of the Albany Public Library and enjoy NASA's livestream of the event.
The Egg Presents Eclipse at the Ellipse: Eclipse Afterparty
April 8 | 4 PM | The Egg
End your Eclipse Day with a free event that's out of this world! Travel into outer space with films, live performances, DJs, visual projections and more. Enjoy sci-fi movies in the Swyer Theatre including Wall-E, A Trip to the Moon, and 2001: A Space Odyssey. Spend some time in the Hart Theatre for atmospheric music, activities, and installations. For an extraterrestrial extravaganza, join Albany Center Gallery and local artist Jade Warrick, also known as TrashKiD, to create mini space creatures in the Hart Lobby.
Best Viewing Spots in Albany County
Solar eclipse viewing is best done in an open area far from buildings and extra, artificial light. Here in Albany County, some of the best spaces are the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, the Crossings of Colonie, the Corning Preserve, and Thacher Park.
Or enjoy a viewing of the total eclipse virtually thanks to a new webcam recently installed atop the UAlbany Atmospheric Sciences Research Center's Whiteface Mountain Field Station. The station is located within the path of totality and if sky conditions are clear, the camera could pick up a livestream of the total eclipse between 3:25 PM and 3:28 PM.
More Resources
Find everything from safety tips to viewing locations to eclipse facts and activities below!
