The upcoming solar eclipse on April 8 will be the last eclipse visible across the lower 48 states until August 23, 2044, so you don’t want to miss out on this celestial event. It will only be a partial eclipse in Northern Virginia, but glasses are still necessary if you plan on looking up at the sky. Here’s where you can grab your solar eclipse glasses around Northern Virginia.
The David M. Brown Planetarium
Head to the planetarium to get your glasses. On April 1, 6, and 7, the planetarium will hand out free eclipse glasses before its public programming, while supplies last. After you secure your glasses, grab tickets to the Stars Tonight or the Lights Out! Eclipses: Whys, Wonders and Wows shows. 1426 N. Quincy St., Arlington
Fairfax County Park Authority
Celebrate the eclipse at one of Fairfax County’s parks. On April 8, Ellanor C. Lawrence Park, Burke Lake Park, Historic Huntley, and Turner Farm Park will host pre- and post-viewing activities. A limited number of eclipse glasses and sun-spotting scopes will be available. Admission is $10. Various locations
Solar Eclipse Week at the Loudoun County Law Library
From April 1 to 8, you can learn about a legal eclipse while preparing for the solar eclipse. While you’re there, pick up your free pair of glasses. 18 E. Market St., Leesburg
MyEyeDr
Make your way to the Front Royal and Winchester locations to get your free pair of eclipse glasses. The eye doctors’ offices will hand out glasses to encourage eye health and safety during the eclipse. 869 John Marshall Hwy., Front Royal; 3051 Valley Ave., Ste. 102, Winchester; 2028 S. Pleasant Valley Rd., Winchester
Virginia State Parks
On April 8, visit Sweet Run State Park, Widewater State Park, or Lake Anna State Park to take in the eclipse. Each of the parks is holding events to watch the solar phenomenon. Glasses are limited and will be $1 per pair. Attendees should call ahead to see whether glasses are still available. Various locations
Northern Virginia Astronomy Club Events
The NOVAC plans to have events at three separate NoVA spots on April 8: Sky Meadows State Park, Gateway Park, and George Mason University. Glasses are free at Gateway Park and $1 at Sky Meadows. Supplies are limited. Various locations
Loudoun County Parks, Recreation and Community Services
Loudoun County is the place to be for the eclipse. The parks and rec department has 15 different events planned throughout the region. Prepare for the eclipse at Hal and Berni Hanson Regional Park, join one of the eclipse viewing parties at Bluemont Community Center or Lovettsville Park, relive the eclipse at a planetarium show. Glasses will be provided, but registration is required for all events. Find more eclipse events here. Various locations
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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