Rare solar eclipse sparks tourist boom in Eastern Eownships

Monday, April 1, 2024

The Eastern Townships are abuzz with anticipation for the upcoming total solar eclipse, which is garnering attention not just for its awe-inspiring celestial spectacle but also as a significant draw for tourism. This event is described as an extraordinary occurrence, with Julie Bolduc-Duval, executive director of Discover the Universe, emphasizing its rarity. A total solar eclipse is an event that happens infrequently, with the last one visible over Montreal occurring in 1932.

Despite various safety precautions and warnings to protect viewers’ eyesight, the excitement across eastern Canada, particularly in anticipation of the eclipse on April 8, is palpable. The eclipse’s path will take it across Mexico and the U.S. before it moves into Canada, with the best views expected in the path of totality, which includes Quebec’s Eastern Townships.

Lysandre Michaud-Verreault, a spokesperson for Tourism Eastern Townships, highlighted the eclipse’s path directly through significant locations like Sherbrooke and the Astrolab du parc national du Mont-Mégantic, noted for its dark sky reserves.

Cities such as Magog, Sherbrooke, and Coaticook are poised to offer prime viewing spots for this celestial phenomenon. The tourism board anticipates the arrival of approximately 75,000 people across 50 organized watch parties, not to mention individuals arriving independently to witness the event. This influx of visitors is particularly welcome during a typically quiet time of year, providing a significant boost to local tourism.

Moreover, Montreal is hosting its events, with expectations of large crowds gathering at Parc Jean Drapeau for a communal viewing experience. Bolduc-Duval reflected on the profound nature of witnessing a total solar eclipse, describing it as a deeply moving experience that connects individuals to the vastness of the universe.

For those unable to witness this eclipse, it might be a long wait, as no similar event is expected in eastern Canada for at least the next 50 years, underscoring the unique opportunity this eclipse presents for both celestial enthusiasts and the tourism industry alike.

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