In an exciting celestial event, Austin, Texas, is gearing up to witness a total solar eclipse, an occurrence that hasn't happened over the city since 1397, according to experts. To commemorate this rare phenomenon, the Simons Foundation, in collaboration with the Waterloo Greenway Conservancy, the Long Center for the Performing Arts, and Fusebox, will be hosting a three-day celebration from April 7-9.

The festivities will kick off on April 7 at the Waterloo Greenway, starting at 6 p.m. The venue will come alive with performances and presentations by musicians, writers, artists, and other public figures, who will be sharing poems that delve into the science behind eclipses.

On April 8, the main event will take place at the Long Center, where a free eclipse viewing party will be held. The doors will open at 11 a.m., ahead of the eclipse's totality at 1:36 p.m. in Austin. Attendees will be treated to live music performances, visual storytelling events, and a range of specialty food and beer options. Additionally, guests will receive a pair of eclipse viewing glasses, allowing them to safely witness the celestial spectacle. Astronomers will also be present to engage with the attendees and answer any questions.

The following day, April 9, the Waterloo Greenway will host a children's story time featuring a reading of Molly Webster's "Little Black Hole," a space-themed story that aims to captivate young minds.

Ivvet Modinou, the vice president of Science, Society & Culture at the Simons Foundation, expressed the significance of this celebration, stating, "This initiative is about celebrating that the eclipse is happening where you are, in this moment, and how special and rare that is." Modinou emphasized that experiencing an eclipse can ignite a lifelong love for science, even for those who may not consider themselves science enthusiasts. With Austin's vibrant history of bringing people together through various forms of art, culture, and science, the city is the ideal location to host these eclipse-related events.

As April approaches, Austinites are eagerly looking forward to immersing themselves in three days of eclipse-inspired celebrations, where they can witness a historical astronomical event and foster a deeper connection with the wonders of science.