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Rare eclipse in Spring 2024 equals increased tourism opportunities for Prince Edward County

A two story brick building with a white peaked entryway with four columns. The front of the building says 'Shire Hall'.
Photo by Craig Foster
Brenda Little - CJPE - Picton • ON | 15-11-2023
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The first total eclipse of the sun since 1349 will happen this spring and Prince Edward County is in a unique position to view this rare occurrence.  The eclipse will happen on April 8, 2024.

Prince Edward County is in the "path of totality" where the area will be briefly in total darkness. PEC is in a unique position to provide some of the best viewing of this event in Ontario. This gives the County a unique opportunity for both tourism and education.

The County's Municipal Emergency Control Group and community partners recently discussed plans covering traffic control, safety and communications.

The County itself also plans to explore marketing opportunities as the date draws closer. During the April eclipse, the moon will completely block the sun for 3 minutes and 2 seconds starting at 3:21 in the afternoon. The next eclipse of this magnitude and location will not take place until 2399.

A screen shot of the April 8, 2024 total eclipse map with a location marker showing Prince Edward County.

Map showing the location of the total eclipse happening on April 8, 2024, with a marker showing that Prince Edward County is in the area of total eclipse. Image: National Solar Observatory website. Creative Commons

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