On April 8, people worldwide can experience a total solar eclipse, where the moon will pass between the Sun and Earth. When the moon directly aligns with the sun, it will cast a shadow over the Earth for a few minutes.
Since Toronto is not in the path of totality, Torontonians can experience a near-total solar eclipse (at 99% coverage) between 2:04 p.m. and 4:31 p.m., with its peak at 3:19 p.m., before ending at 4:41 PM. Here are our top picks for the best viewing locations across the city to take in this celestial event.
Corktown Common Park: Great family-friendly outdoor spot to watch the eclipse, with a vast amount of space (18 acres), picnic tables, and washrooms. Located at the foot of Lower River Street and Bayview Avenue. Address: 155 Bayview Ave.
Chester Hill Lookout: Located at the end of a quiet residential street at the end of Chester Hill Rd., near Broadview, just north of the Danforth. The lookout has great views of the city skyline.
Toronto Metropolitan University—The Quad: Located in central Toronto, TMU’s solar eclipse watch party in the Quad is a prime spot to watch the eclipse. Takes place on April 8 between 2:00 and 4:30 p.m. Eclipse glasses will be available for free to those who register for the event. Click here for more information. Address: 43 Gerrard St East.
Étienne Brûlé Park: Join the eclipse viewing party at the park, hosted by The Royal Canadian Institute for Science. Speakers will explore how the eclipse impacts local wildlife. Pre-registered attendees can collect glasses from organizers on a first-come-first-serve basis, otherwise, you’ll have to bring your own eclipse glasses. Located in the Humber River valley just north of Bloor Street West. Address: 10 Catherine Ave.
The CN Tower: This might be one of the best views in the city to watch the celestial event. Tickets are required and must be booked in advance, but eclipse glasses are provided with the cost of entry. Address: 290 Bremner Blvd.
Sugar Beach: Located across from Redpath Sugar Refinery at the foot of Lower Jarvis St., south of Queens Quay—it’s a perfect spot to view the Toronto skyline (with reflections of the eclipse off the water). Address: 11 Dockside Dr.
Scarborough Bluffs Park: Perched atop the cliffs, you’ll have a wide view of the city and Lake Ontario—the perfect setting for this celestial event. It’ll likely be crowded, so arrive early.
Eclipses occur about every 18 months somewhere in the world, but it is rare for a total solar eclipse to be seen near Toronto. The last total eclipse seen in North America was August 21, 2017, with 70% partial viewing in Toronto. Upcoming partial eclipses visible from Toronto that will have over 50% coverage will be on January 14, 2029 (at 51.75% coverage), November 4, 2040 (at 57.3% coverage), and August 12, 2045 (at 51.88% coverage).
Remember, it’s dangerous to observe this astronomical event without specialized eclipse glasses (regular sunglasses won’t do). It’s best to choose a product that is labeled with ‘ISO’ (the International Organization for Standardization).
Check out these Ontario wineries that are hosting total eclipse parties and some of the best solar eclipse watch parties in and around Toronto.