Solar Eclipse

Eastern Townships prepares for a rare solar eclipse

Pictured is the Mont-Mégantic observatory, located in the first international dark sky reserve. It is one of the prime viewing spots for the solar eclipse. Photo courtesy of Tourism Eastern Townships. Photo by : Charles Dion

By Taylor McClure
Townships’ Daily News Bits
CIDI 99.1 FM
Published on 18/03/24 - Played on 15/03/24 and replayed on 18/03/24

The Eastern Townships is gearing up for the solar eclipse on April 8 and local players and stakeholders are organizing activities to bring people together around the rare astronomical phenomena. 

According to Lysandre Michaud-Verreault, communications director and official spokesperson for Tourism Eastern Townships, the Eastern Townships is one of the only regions in Quebec and North America where a total eclipse can be viewed for around 3 minutes and 30 seconds, while other areas that fall in its path will experience it for around 45 seconds. 

She described the solar eclipse as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity with the next one slated 80 years from now. 

While the early spring marks a slower time for the region, Michaud-Verreault said that tourism stakeholders are building up the momentum not only to provide a “solar eclipse experience,” but to encourage people to extend their stay and discover the area. 

Listen to the full interview below: