On Monday, Aug. 21, the solar eclipse – biggest astronomical event in decades – will be visible across the United States, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate this cool phenomenon right here in South Jersey.
Rowan University’s Edelman Planetarium
201 Mullica Hill Road, Glassboro
856-256-4389
Visit the planetarium for a variety of activities, including a free planetarium show, solar telescopes to safely view the eclipse and live streams from around the country. The first 1,000 visitors will receive free eclipse glasses to safely view the sun and moon, and hands-on activities will be available on the Science Hall grounds from 1 to 4 pm. For more information and a full schedule of events, visit the website.
Mays Landing Library
40 Farragut Avenue, Mays Landing
609-625-2776
Visitors to the library can pick up a pair of goggles and head to Gaskill Park to watch the eclipse. Glasses are limited, but staff will help you make a pin-hole viewer when they run out. The event runs from 2 to 3 pm at the Mays Landing Library. For more information, visit the website.
Pleasantville Library
33 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Pleasantville
609-641-1778
Make your own version of the eclipse at the Pleasantville activity room during this craft program suggested for ages 11 to 17. Attendees will learn how a solar eclipse works and make their own small-scale version. The crafting runs from 2:30 to 4:30 pm. For more information, visit the website.
Teen Solar Eclipse Party
290 Mathistown Road, Little Egg Harbor Township
609-294-1197
Teens are invited to snack as they watch the highly anticipated event with a pair of provided eclipse glasses at the Little Egg Harbor Library. To receive glasses, an adult over 18 must sign for their personal use. For more information, visit the website.
The Pop Shop
729 Haddon Avenue, Collingswood
856-869-0111
Party all day long with The Pop Shop during the “Partial Eclipse Party” at the Collingswood location. Visitors can dine on special menu items like the Dark Side of the Moon Shake and Moon Pie Pancakes. Kids can make edible constellations, and the first 25 guests will receive free viewing glasses. For more information, visit the website.
