Eclipse Viewing Parties in LA & Orange County – Where to Watch This Solar Showdown in Southern California
Photo: NASA
The sky is getting ready to stage a celestial extravaganza! On Saturday, October 14, 2023, Southern California will be treated to a mesmerizing annular solar eclipse. But hold onto your eclipse glasses (safety first!) as we dive into what this cosmic show is all about.
Eclipse 101: What’s an Annular Solar Eclipse?
Imagine this: it’s like a celestial ring toss. During an annular solar eclipse, the Moon perfectly aligns with the Sun, creating a dazzling ‘ring of fire’ effect. It’s a rare sight where the Moon appears just a tad smaller than the Sun, leaving a fiery halo in the sky.
Here in the LA & Orange County area, we will see it as a partial solar eclipse, where the shadow of the moon will cover about 70% of the Sun.
Safety First: Eclipse Eye Couture!
We can’t stress this enough: never, ever look at the Sun during an eclipse without proper eye protection. Invest in some snazzy (certified) eclipse glasses—here’s the American Astronomical Society’s list of manufacturers and retailers that offer certified eclipse glasses. Trust us, your eyes will thank you!
Free Eclipse Glasses at Libraries: The STAR Library Network, managed by the Space Science Institute, offers free eclipse glasses to some libraries. Check the Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries (SEAL) website for a map of participating libraries.
Aspiring Astronomer? Tips to Hype Up the Kids
How do you get the little ones stoked about this stellar spectacle? Turn it into an eclipse-themed family adventure!
- Eclipse Snack Attack: Moon pies, anyone? Make or find fun galactic-themed treats.
- Eclipse Party Playlist: Create a cosmic playlist! “Total Eclipse of the Heart” is a must!
- Eclipse Storytime: Dive into eclipse-related books for kids. It’s an excellent way to learn about the science behind this enchanting event.
- Eclipse Spotting: Choose the perfect viewing spot. Whether it’s your backyard, a local park, or a designated viewing party, make sure you’ve got a prime location.
- Eclipse Craft: Get crafty with eclipse-themed art project or make your own pinhole projector.
A crowd uses handheld solar viewers and solar eclipse glasses to safely view a solar eclipse. Credit: National Park Service
Free Eclipse Viewing Parties near LA & Orange County
All events listed below are free and happening on the morning of Saturday, October 14th (generally 8am-noon). Eclipse glasses are offered while supplies last.
- Cerritos – Meet near the Tsunami sculpture in front of Cerritos Library to view the eclipse. Solar glasses will be distributed to the first 200 participants. There will also be a telescope with a special solar filter. After the viewing, kids can enjoy eclipse-related activities in the Skyline Room.
- Buena Park – Receive glasses, listen to stories and view the eclipse while munching on galaxy themed treats at the Buena Park Library.
- Costa Mesa – The Orange Coast College Planetarium will have solar telescopes, eclipse glasses, a special dome presentation, drawing for prizes, and meet real astronomers. RSVP here.
- Anaheim – Watch the eclipse with special glasses, make Solar Eclipse Pancakes, and enjoy coffee and hot chocolate at the Anaheim Public Library – Sunkist Branch.
- San Juan Capistrano – The Caspers Park Nature Center is hosting a viewing party with free glasses for registered participants. Register here.
- Mission Viejo – Visit The Kershaw Garden at Mission Viejo Library to learn fun facts, participate in eclipse-related activities, and each family will receive viewing glasses.
- Yorba Linda – Enjoy eclipse activities, crafts and free glasses at the Yorba Linda Public Library.
- Los Angeles – Griffith Observatory is hosting a public observing event with solar telescopes.
- Pasadena – Join Caltech at the Cahill Astronomy and Astrophysics Building to view the eclipse through solar telescopes and eclipse glasses, plus enjoy two short presentations, and meet astrophysicists.
- Walnut – The Randall Planetarium at Mt. San Antonio College will have solar telescopes and planetarium shows highlighting the eclipse (seats are first come, first served).
- San Diego – The Fleet Science Center is hosting a viewing with free glasses, demo stations, crafts, and astronomers and eclipse experts on hand. Stay at the center the rest of the day for eclipse-related activities. Viewing party is free, activities within the center require admission.
Want more family fun in Southern California? Visit our Calendar or sign up for the Kidsguide Newsletter to get events delivered to your inbox weekly.
Categories: Blog
This post was written by Kidsguide
