A solar eclipse occurs when the moon moves between the sun and Earth, blocking our view of the sun. In a solar eclipse, the moon’s shadow, caused by the sun, is cast onto Earth. It is not every day that a solar eclipse happens in our own backyard – especially a total solar eclipse (when the sun and the moon are lined up perfectly, causing a total blackout). In fact, the last total solar eclipse that was visible in the United States was on February 26, 1998. So, that is why on August 21, 2017, there are so many viewing events planned throughout the country.
If you are planning to join in on viewing this moment of history by throwing a watch party, you will need a few things to be prepared.
Choose the perfect watch party location
The good thing about a solar eclipse watch party is that it’s biggest requirement when it comes to picking a location is that it just needs to be outside! After all, you cannot see the sun and the moon (nor get the whole effect) if you try to watch from a window indoors. So, whether it is in a vacant lot in your neighborhood, a local park, or even your own backyard — you just need to make sure the location you choose has an unobstructed view of the sky.
Keep in mind that the direct path is the only place you will see a total eclipse. This ranges from Lincoln Beach, Oregon, and heads east to Charleston, South Carolina. This includes the states of Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and North Carolina. All other areas of the United States will only be able to view a partial eclipse.
Take cover by renting a clearspan tent
It would be a sad day if you put a lot of planning, time, and effort into your solar eclipse party only to be exposed to super-heated conditions – or any other potentially disappointing weather. Therefore, you will want to consider renting a tent for your event. And not just any event tent since that would block your view, of course. Instead, you need to rent a clearspan tent.
Clearspan tents offer you all the protection and perks of having a tent, but it’s clear! In fact, it almost appears as if you are in a glass house. That means you and your guests can view this amazing moment in time without being subjected to brutal heat, heavy humidity, rain, the wind, or any other type of inclement weather! Clearspan tents can be customized to fit your allotted area. They can also come with perks such as flooring, sidewalls, and climate control.
Supplies you may need
For your watch party, you will want to make sure you have a few supplies on hand. You’ll need supplies for the viewing of the eclipse, as well as for the comfort of your guests.
- Eye protection: You never, ever want to look directly at the sun. Instead, you will need some type of viewing device that has a solar filter. This can be in the form of solar (eclipse) glasses or on various handheld devices. Viewing the eclipse any other way can cause serious harm to your eyes.
- Sunscreen: You are going to be outdoors for quite a while so you will want to make sure you and your guests are protected. Don’t count on them to bring their own.
- Water: It is important to stay hydrated as you wait for the eclipse. Plan to have easy access to water for everyone in attendance.
- White towels: Anything in the sun’s path is going to get incredibly hot as you sit outside. If covered with white towels, the sun’s heat is reflected, keeping all your equipment and other items cooler.
Educational entertainment
Many people have an idea of what a solar eclipse is, but they don’t necessarily understand the ins and outs of it. Since you are throwing a solar eclipse watch party, what better time to get a bit educational, right? Set up a projector with a screen, allowing you to show movies and other solar eclipse related media. NASA has some informative video and image clips about eclipses that can enlighten you and your guests. In addition, NASA intends to live stream the entire total solar eclipse. This is a time of social fun so of course, you don’t want your guests sitting in a school type setting, but having the projector going for those who want to watch can add some entertainment.
You may also want to consider some solar eclipse activities. The internet is filled with things such as creating a time capsule, building a sun dial, decorating your viewing glasses, making moon sand,etc. Do a little research and see what would be fun for the guests you have invited.
Décor and other goodies
Because the theme of your event is the actual solar eclipse, you should consider decorations that circle around it. For example:
- Galaxy and astronomy decorations – and keeping your colors in the galaxy realm.
- Make nebula jars and use them as part of the décor. Or have your guests make them as a treat to take home!
- Serve snacks and drinks that play on the theme. Here are a few examples: moon pies, sun-dried fruits, Milky Way candy bars, Sunny D, Sunkist, Sun Chips, chocolate moon cake, blue galaxy cocktail, etc.
It doesn’t matter if you are in the direct path of the eclipse for the total effect or if you will just be able to see a partial eclipse. Bring people together in awe as they watch these two giant light sources that we depend on cross paths – even if it only lasts a brief time. So, don’t just let this moment of history pass. Instead, throw a watch party and celebrate it with friends and family. Grab a clearspan tent, some solar glasses, and a smile – and throw the best solar eclipse event around!