{"id":12158,"date":"2017-08-08T14:53:54","date_gmt":"2017-08-08T18:53:54","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.beverly-hanks.com\/blog\/?p=12158"},"modified":"2017-08-08T14:53:54","modified_gmt":"2017-08-08T18:53:54","slug":"solar-eclipse-asheville","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/solar-eclipse-asheville\/","title":{"rendered":"17 Solar Eclipse Celebrations in Asheville and across WNC"},"content":{"rendered":"

Forty-eight years ago, a nation collectively huddled around their television sets to witness three men make one giant leap for mankind. In less than two weeks, the nation will again come together. This time, however, we will not be staring at screens, but will be in the grass, on the sidewalks, in our back yards, or anywhere where we can peer into the sky without obstruction.
\nThe Great American Solar Eclipse<\/a> is sweeping across the nation.
\n\"path
\nFrom Oregon to South Carolina<\/a>, millions of people will be witness to a once-in-a-generation astronomical event. A total solar eclipse has not been visible from the continental U.S. since 1979. It will not be seen in Western North Carolina again for another century.
\nThe Earth is unique in that our moon is very nearly the exact right size, at the exact right distance, and inclined at the exactly right elliptical to periodically block the sun. When this happens, a penumbra of shadow passes over the planet, causing a partial eclipse. At the nexus of this shadow is the umbra, a very small spot (relatively speaking) where the sun is eclipsed in its entirety.
\n\"\"<\/p>\n

Image Copyright: <\/span>alhovik \/ 123RF Stock Photo<\/span><\/a><\/h6>\n

While locations across all 48 contiguous states will experience a jaw-dropping partial eclipse, one narrow band of citizens will be able to see a 100% obstruction of the sun. Changes in the sky will begin around 1:00pm on Monday, August 21 and last until 4:00. The full eclipse will last up to two minutes and 40 seconds. When viewed safely with solar glasses<\/a>, this rare occurrence allows you to view the sun\u2019s chromosphere and corona<\/a>, as well as stars and planets not normally visible during the day.
\nIn Western North Carolina, Asheville and Hendersonville will experience a 99% eclipse around 2:30pm. Areas west and south of Waynesville will be in the path of the 100% eclipse. Jackson County<\/a>, Swain County<\/a>, and Graham County<\/a>, located an hour west of Asheville, are all prime locations for viewing the total eclipse.
\n\"total
\nFrom lake fronts and mountaintops to town squares and city centers, there are plenty of places to watch the eclipse in WNC. However, if you are planning to go to locations with limited parking, like national parks and forests<\/a>, be sure to plan ahead and get there early.
\nHere are a few WNC-area events<\/a> for the Great American Solar Eclipse.<\/p>\n

\n

Cherokee’s Cultural Eclipse Celebration<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Sun. August 20, 2:00\u20139:00pm and Mon. August 21, 9:00am\u20137:00pm<\/h4>\n

The ancient Cherokees believed a giant frog that lived in the sky would swallow the sun, causing darkness to occur during the daytime. The Cherokees and other tribes would gather and fire guns, beat drums, and generally make noise so as to frighten the great frog away, making the sun shine brightly again. This two-day event will include the Warriors of AniKituhwa, Native American performances, storytelling, food vendors, and more. Admission is $25 each day for ages 6+ (includes a free pair of certified eclipse glasses).
\nLearn more: visitcherokeenc.com<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Cashiers Eclipse Festival<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, 10:00am\u20135:00pm<\/h4>\n

The Village Green in Cashiers lies directly in the path of totality and will experience darkness for 2:23 beginning at 2:36pm. Astronomy activities with eclipse tips and facts will be taking place throughout the day. Visitors can try several local food trucks, enjoy beer and wine, and buy sweet treats and ice cream. Yard games and a live music performance by Coconut Groove will entertain guests during the festivities. The U.S. Postal Service will be on site to sell and cancel commemorative solar eclipse stamps. Admission with donation.
\nLearn more: discoverjacksonnc.com\/total-solar-eclipse<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Highlands Total Solar Eclipse Viewing Party<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, 10:00am<\/h4>\n

Highlands, North Carolina is the preeminent WNC location to view the 2017 eclipse. Check out events in the area for the entire week leading up to the big event. Their Total Solar Eclipse Viewing Party will start with Yoga in the Park and music by Tyler Kittle and Hurricane Creek Band. This festival is one of 30 eclipse parties hosted across North and South Carolina as part of the Carolina Solar Eclipse Party<\/a> initiative. Protective eyewear is a MUST!
\nLearn more: highlandseclipsefest.com<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

The Total Solar Eclipse at Gorges State Park<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Sat. August 19\u2013Mon. August 21<\/h4>\n

The Friends of Gorges State Park is sponsoring three days of family-friendly, fun activities leading up to the total solar eclipse. The park offers prime viewing spots and plans to make the event truly memorable. Enjoy live music, food trucks, ranger-led nature hikes, science discussions and demonstrations, face painting, and more. This festival is one of 30 eclipse parties hosted across North and South Carolina as part of the Carolina Solar Eclipse Party<\/a> initiative. Free admission.
\nLearn more: friendsofgorges.org\/eclipse-at-gorges<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

2017 Eclipse at Clingman\u2019s Dome<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21<\/h4>\n

Clingmans Dome Trailhead parking area will be converted to a special ticketed event site for experiencing the eclipse with the assistance of experts, educational exhibits, and story tellers. NASA will be streaming live on location. Clingmans Dome Road will be closed on Sunday, August 20 and Monday, August 21 to accommodate the special event. This festival is one of 30 eclipse parties hosted across North and South Carolina as part of the Carolina Solar Eclipse Party<\/a> initiative.
\nTickets for the Clingmans Dome event are SOLD OUT<\/b>. Any cancelled tickets will become available to the public again at recreation.gov<\/a>.
\nLearn more: nps.gov\/grsm<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Downtown Sylva Eclipse Festival<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, 11:00am\u20134:00pm<\/h4>\n

Sylva lies in the path of totality and will experience 1:47 of darkness. Festivities include live music from the Colby Deitz band and children\u2019s activities from 11:00am\u20131:00pm. Don\u2019t miss the planetary walk of the Solar System scaled to fit on Sylva\u2019s Main Street. Adult events following the kids\u2019 events will be held at Bridge Park. This festival is one of 30 eclipse parties hosted across North and South Carolina as part of the Carolina Solar Eclipse Party<\/a> initiative. Free admission.
\nLearn more: discoverjacksonnc.com<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

2017 Eclipse at PARI<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21<\/h4>\n

This is the first time a total solar eclipse has occurred at a site equipped with 26-meter radio telescopes.  No one knows what will be learned by pointing these giant instruments at the sun during totality, but scientists will be on hand to find out. This is one of 30 eclipse parties hosted across North and South Carolina as part of the Carolina Solar Eclipse Party<\/a> initiative.
\nTickets for the PARI event are SOLD OUT<\/b>.
\nLearn more: pari.edu\/things-to-do\/2017-eclipse<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Rosman Eclipse Viewing Event<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, 8:00am\u20134:30pm<\/h4>\n

This family-friendly event will include live music, games, and concessions for both lunch and dinner. Tickets are $40 for adults, $25 for children 5\u201317. Proceeds will go to benefit Rosman High School.
\nLearn more: blueridgeparkwayevents.time.ly<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Brevard College Eclipse Viewing Event<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, 8:00am\u20135:00pm<\/h4>\n

The public is invited to view the eclipse on the Brevard College campus near the Porter Center. Eclipse viewing glasses will be available. Telescopes and other viewing devices can be set up.
\nLearn more: visitwaterfalls.com\/eclipse<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Eclipse Weekend @ BMC<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Fri. August 18\u2013Mon. August 21<\/h4>\n

The Center will be hosting a post-festival season eclipse weekend. The event includes a concert by Lyle Lovett and His Large Band and a VIP viewing event that includes two iconic space movies, VIP Parking, PARI safety glasses, astronomy lectures, BBQ, and live music.
\nLearn more: brevardmusic.org\/festival\/eclipse<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Solar Eclipse Party at Oskar Blues<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, NOON\u20138:00pm<\/h4>\n

Enjoy live tunes all day, Oskar Blues CHUBwagon<\/a> specials, bouncy house, special eclipse glasses for everyone, and maybe even a guest appearance by the Pisgah Thunder<\/a>. No camping is available on site, by there are several locations nearby.
\nLearn more: facebook.com\/events<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Solar Eclipse Party at Harmon Field<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, 11:00am\u20133:00pm<\/h4>\n

The Polk County Public Library and Polk County Early College Science Club are hosting a Solar Eclipse Party at Harmon Field in Tryon. This is a great opportunity to view the 99.77% obscuration of the sun as the moon passes between the sun and the earth. The celebration will include music, food crafts, and activities. This festival is one of 30 eclipse parties hosted across North and South Carolina as part of the Carolina Solar Eclipse Party<\/a> initiative. The event is free and open to the public. Sun viewing glasses will be available at the event.
\nLearn more: polkschools.org\/eclipse<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

The Arboretum\u2019s (almost) Total Eclipse<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, 8:00am\u20134:00pm<\/h4>\n

Avoid the traffic and crowds and enjoy the Arboretum\u2019s 434 acres of trails and open garden spaces, perfect for viewing this once-in-a-lifetime event. The first 250 cars through the Arboretum gates will receive a free pair of solar eclipse glasses for the 99% eclipse. More will be on sale at the Connections Gallery gift shop.
\nLearn more: ncarboretum.org<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Asheville’s Solar Eclipse Festival in Pack Square Park<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, NOON\u20133:00pm<\/h4>\n

Join the target=”blank”Asheville Museum of Science<\/a>, UNC Asheville<\/a>, Asheville City Schools,<\/a> Buncombe County Schools<\/a>, and more for Asheville\u2019s Solar Eclipse Festival. Bring the whole family and witness a spectacular solar eclipse while enjoying music, food, fun activities, and more. This festival is one of 30 eclipse parties hosted across North and South Carolina as part of the Carolina Solar Eclipse Party<\/a> initiative. Satellite locations will be at Owen High School, North Buncombe High School, and TC Roberson High School. Free admission.
\nLearn more: ashevillescience.org\/solar-eclipse<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

UNC Asheville’s Great American Eclipse<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, 1:00\u20133:00pm<\/h4>\n

UNC Asheville faculty, staff, and students are invited to gather together on the Quad for an afternoon of eclipse watching on telescopes with sun funnels, listening to eclipse-inspired music, playing games, yoga, enjoying ice cream and other treats, and experiencing this great event together. For UNC Asheville faculty, staff, and students ONLY<\/b>.
\nLearn more: eclipse.wp.unca.edu<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Highland Brewing Company Rooftop Eclipse Viewing Party<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Mon. August 21, NOON\u20135:00pm<\/h4>\n

Witness the eclipse Beer City USA-style from one of Asheville\u2019s newest rooftop bars. Bring your eclipse glasses, grab a pint, and watch from the rooftop deck at Highland Brewing Company or in the grassy meadow. Come early and stay as long as you want. The rooftop bar is for those 21 and older. The meadow is family-friendly. Free admission.
\nLearn more: highlandbrewing.com<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

Rock the Eclipse in Black Mountain<\/h2>\n

WHEN: Fri. August 18\u2013Mon. August 21<\/h4>\n

Historic downtown Black Mountain will host events all weekend leading to the eclipse party on Monday. Festivities begin on Friday, August 18, with an outdoor movie on Black Mountain Avenue at dark. On Saturday, join in the evening Wine Walk beginning at the Merry Wine Market. The Monday afternoon eclipse party will begin at 1:00pm on Town Square and feature live music by Jordan Okrend. Black Mountain will experience a 98.9% eclipse.
\nLearn more: visitblackmountain.net\/rock-the-eclipse<\/a><\/p>\n

\n

\"17
\n 
\nFor additional eclipse viewing locations, like prime points along the Blue Ridge Parkway<\/a>, check out exploreasheville.com<\/a> and romanticasheville.com<\/a>.
\n <\/p>\n

Know of additional solar eclipse events around Asheville? Share them with us in the comments.<\/h4>\n

 <\/p>\n

Eclipse Image Copyright: <\/span>andrewrybalko \/ 123RF Stock Photo<\/span><\/a><\/h6>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Forty-eight years ago, a nation collectively huddled around their television sets to witness three men make one giant leap for mankind. In less than two weeks, the nation will again come together. This time, however, we will not be staring at screens, but will be in the grass, on the sidewalks, in our back yards,… Read more »<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":12162,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[2,16],"tags":[12,112,21,113],"class_list":["post-12158","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-commercial","category-events","tag-asheville","tag-local-events","tag-local-news","tag-wnc"],"acf":[],"featured_image":null,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12158","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/6"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=12158"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/12158\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=12158"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=12158"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.naibeverly-hanks.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=12158"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}