This event is now SOLD OUT
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event – it’s a celestial celebration you won’t want to miss!
Join us on April 8, 2024, at Fort Henry National Historic Site, Eastern Ontario’s prime total eclipse destination for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity as Kingston, Ontario is in the direct path of totality. In a total solar eclipse, the moon will completely cover the sun, creating a celestial spectacle visible from our historic grounds. Immerse yourself in the science and wonder of this rare cosmic event that will last almost three minutes – one which only occurs every few hundred years.
Attendees will enjoy an afternoon filled with captivating guest speakers including featured guest Bob McDonald from CBC’s Quirks and Quarks, local entertainment, children’s crafts and activities, an artisan market, and so much more.
FREE eclipse glasses will be available on site.
About Bob McDonald
Bob McDonald; renowned Canadian science journalist, host of CBC Radio’s Quirks & Quarks, contributor to CBC Television’s The National and numerous TV programs, and author of six bestselling science books. An Officer of the Order of Canada and a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, McDonald has received accolades for his significant contributions to science promotion, including the Michael Smith Award. He holds 13 honorary doctorates, two honorary College degrees, and serves on the board of Friends of the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory.
Important Updates
Parking is limited and pre-registered guests are advised to arrive early.
The LaSalle Causeway is fully closed to all public access, including vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians, until further notice. For more information, click here.
Anyone planning to visit anywhere in Kingston on April 8 is encouraged to take advantage of the free public transportation that day or at least carpool. Traffic volume will be high and there are multiple road closures in place which will affect travel to Fort Henry, so plan your route in advance and leave early.
For more safety information and tips, visit Canadian Space Agency.
| Dates & Times |
| April 5, 2024 10:00 am - April 5, 2024 4:30 pm |
| April 6, 2024 10:00 am - April 6, 2024 4:30 pm |
| April 7, 2024 10:00 am - April 7, 2024 4:30 pm |
| April 8, 2024 12:00 pm - April 8, 2024 5:00 pm |
| Admissions |
| Fort Henry Historic Programming |
$10 (plus HST) |
| Solar Eclipse Day | Pre-Registration Required |
Free |
Programming & Activities
Enjoy live music, guest speakers, an escape game from Improbable Escapes, an artisan market, food vendors, children’s activities, and games.
- 12:30pm-12:45pm – Guest Emcee: Bill Welychka
- 12:45pm-1:15pm – Live Music: Willy Nilly
- 1:30pm-1:50pm – Guest Speaker: Nick Swidinsky
- 1:50pm-2:10pm – Guest Speaker: Bob McDonald
- 2:10pm-2:40pm – Live Music: Savannah Shea
- 2:40pm-3:15pm – Guest Speaker: Bob McDonald
- 3:15pm-3:45pm – Eclipse Totality
- 3:45pm-4:05pm – Guest Speaker: Lindsay Brant
- 4:15pm-4:45pm – Live Music: The Mill Rights
Fort Henry will also offer programming from Friday, April 5, to Sunday, April 7, starting at 10am until 4:30pm, and Monday, April 8, starting at 12pm until 5pm. Special Fort Henry programming includes self-guided tours featuring Fort Henry Guard at specific station points. Tickets available on site only as capacity allows.
General
1 Fort Henry Drive, Kingston Ontario
Parking is free in the main parking lot beside Fort Henry’s Great Hall located at 4 Fort Henry Drive, Kingston.
Parking is limited and available first come first served.
The Eclipse event is open to all ages! April 8 event programming will include a combination of educational activities along with festival-style music and games that are suitable for the entire family.
The Eclipse event is held outdoors with limited indoor activities and will proceed rain or shine. In cloudy weather, you’ll still experience the eclipse uniquely, with potential partial obstruction. All other activities will continue as planned.
In case of extreme inclement weather, event closure will be announced on Fort Henry’s website and social media.
Yes, permanent and portable toilets and sinks will be available.
Only service animals are permitted within the walls of Fort Henry.
Smoking and vaping are not permitted within the walls of Fort Henry.
In case of a lost item, please send an inquiry here.
Food & Retail
Yes, you can find food and beverages for purchase at Mrs. Henry’s Treat Shop, BeaverTails, and various food vendors onsite. On April 8, there will be a BBQ on the patio with food and beverage options available for purchase.
Yes, Mrs. Henry’s Treat Shop and Trade Square Vendors will be open in the Upper Fort from April 5-8. Additionally, an artisan market with local vendors will be available on April 8.
Accessibility
Yes, however, please be aware that the event area has varied terrain. While there are paved pathways, some areas have slopes and gravel terrain. We recommend an all-terrain wheelchair for guests who require it.
All terrain wheelchairs are available to guests on arrival (subject to availability).
Picnic tables and benches will be available throughout the site and pathway into Fort Henry. If you are viewing the eclipse outside the walls of Fort Henry, guests are welcome to bring a chair for added comfort.
Donate To Your Local Food Bank
Guests are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to support our local Food Bank. Most needed items include pasta sauce, canned meat, 100% fruit juice, peanut butter, cereal, baby food, and diapers and more. A donation bin will be available at the Upper Fort upon entry. For a full list of accepted items please visit: https://www.kingstonfoodbank.ca/giving/donate-food-bank
Plan Your Visit
Discover what Kingston has to offer from culinary experiences to wellness retreats, several packages are available.
Click here for more details.
Accommodations are already filling up. Kingston offers hotels, motels, and seasonal suites to luxurious inns on historic streets.
Click here for more details.