In anticipation of the solar eclipse, the small town of Luna Pier in Monroe County, Michigan, is abuzz with excitement as crowds gather at the beach and businesses along Luna Pier Road experience a surge in customers. With just over 1,300 residents, Luna Pier is part of a small sliver of Michigan that will witness the total solar eclipse, making it a prime destination for eclipse enthusiasts.

Bailey Redler, 22, drove an hour from Ann Arbor to Luna Pier to witness the eclipse from the path of totality after experiencing one before. Though the difference in distance was only 50 miles, Redler expressed her desire to witness the event in its entirety. "It would've been easier for me to get back from here than all the way from across the state line even though it's not really a difference in miles," she said.

The town's beach and parking lots are already full as people set up camp to witness the once-in-a-lifetime phenomenon. Businesses along Luna Pier Road have also thrived, with eclipse watchers frequenting them for food, drinks, and snacks. Khalil Gray, owner of IBN Gray Inc., an online clothing shop, made the journey from Detroit to sell 2024 Solar Eclipse merchandise along with eclipse viewing glasses.

The Luna Pier Beach Cafe, which typically opens at 5 p.m., made an exception for the eclipse and opened its doors at noon. The response has been overwhelming, with orders pouring in non-stop. Bartender Ashley Scott confirmed that the restaurant was experiencing an hour and a half wait for meals at 1:30 p.m. To commemorate the eclipse, the cafe introduced specialty drinks like the "Black Out Berry," which quickly became the most popular choice among visitors.

Most of Michigan will witness a partial eclipse, with maximum coverage occurring between 3:10 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. However, Luna Pier's fortunate location places it in the line of totality, offering eclipse enthusiasts an exclusive opportunity to witness the event in all its glory.

As the eclipse approaches, the excitement in Luna Pier continues to build, attracting visitors from far and wide who are eager to witness this extraordinary celestial event.