As the highly anticipated total solar eclipse approaches, college towns in New York are gearing up for parties and festivities. With SUNY schools canceling classes for the day, students are excitedly planning gatherings to witness the rare celestial event together.

Luke Kapczak, a 21-year-old sophomore from SUNY Oswego, expressed the buzz surrounding the eclipse on campus, stating that "the eclipse is all everyone is talking about." The university officials have made the decision to cancel classes on Monday afternoon, allowing students to fully embrace the day by celebrating into the darkness.

Kapczak mentioned that fraternities, particularly Sig Tau, are expected to host parties for the occasion. Non-Greek life students are also welcome to join these gatherings, which often involve drinking games and socializing. The close proximity of the fraternities to the main street, where bars are located, makes it easy for partygoers to continue the festivities throughout the day.

Edward Olszewski, another sophomore from SUNY Oswego, revealed his plans to attend the frat house parties with his friends. Some on-campus activities, including live music and food, are also scheduled, but Olszewski prefers to spend the day with his close circle.

The influx of tourists is expected in the Lake Ontario college town of Oswego, with approximately 6,000 visitors anticipated for the eclipse. Additionally, Captain Jack's Goodtime Tavern in Rochester will kick off the celebration with a "Total Eclipse of the Heart" sing-off contest, followed by eclipse-themed karaoke. Patrick's Rooftop in Buffalo is offering tickets for $25 to watch the event from the city's highest bar and patio.

Outside the cities, Lake Erie Wine County is promoting a "Lights Out" tour along the path of totality. Pregame tickets for the region's 21 wineries are available for $60, providing a four-day pass leading up to the big event. For responsible attendees, designated drivers can obtain a pass for $15.

Various breweries and wineries in New York are also capitalizing on the eclipse frenzy by offering eclipse-themed beverages. The Lake Placid Pub brewed a black IPA called "Total Eclipse of the Park," while Raquette River Brewing in Tupper Lake has a Black IPA on tap. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy the Radius Red Blend Eclipse, known for its notes of dark fruits and vanilla.

Nevertheless, with normal life resuming on Tuesday, the potential consequences of a hangover are not lost on the revelers. Olszewski admitted that the parties would be more laid-back and focused on enjoying the event with friends rather than getting excessively intoxicated.

As the eclipse draws near, college students and partygoers in New York are eagerly anticipating a memorable day filled with celebration, drinks, and shared awe at the spectacle in the sky.