wagjag safari niagara 2023

Safari Niagara

Save up to 25% at safari niagara.

Home to native and exotic mammals, reptiles and birds, Safari Niagara lets you get closer to spectacular wildlife. Visitors of all ages and abilities can experience the park's inhabitants on their own or through educational, narrated tram rides, Papa Steve's Family Farm petting zoo, and so much more. 

Save up to 25% when buying in branch or online.

Tickets can be purchased at any CAA Niagara branch or online, and redeemed at Safari Niagara. Click "Purchase Tickets Online" to receive your Promo Code before purchasing.

Tickets can be purchased online or at CAA Niagara branches and redeemed at Safari Niagara. Valid CAA/BCAA/AMA membership must be used at time of purchase at participating locations or online (where applicable). One offer per Member, per visit. No cash value. Offer calculated on pre tax amount and cannot be combined with other offers or promotions unless otherwise specified. Discount is applied after all other eligible discounts and pre tax. Offer availability subject to discontinuation or change without notice. Trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. Additional restrictions and conditions may apply.

• Get Roadside Assistance
• Renew Membership
• Compare Memberships
• Member Benefits
• Save at Shell
• Gift Membership
• CAA Mobile App
• Sign Up for CAA eNews
• CAA Magazine
• Payment Options
• Places to Save
• What are CAA Dollars?
• Shop Online
• Tickets & Activities
• Offers & Deals
• Car Rentals
• Vacation Packages
• CAA Solo Travellers
• Disney Destinations
• Universal Orlando Resort
• Travel Info & Planning
• Maps, TripTiks & TourBooks
• Passport Photos
• Travel Insurance
• Attraction Tickets
• Destination Weddings
• Events & Presentations
• Theme Park Attractions
• Find an Agent
• Get a Quote
• Home Insurance
• Auto Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• Term Life Insurance
• Health & Dental Insurance
• Critical Illness Insurance
• Life & Health Insurance Advisory Services
• Personal Accident Insurance
• File a Claim
• Approved Auto Repair Services
• Mobile Battery Service
• Roadside Assistance
• Service Tracker
• Bike Assist
• Motorcycle Rescue
• Driver Education
• Buying & Selling a Vehicle
• Maintenance & Repairs
• CAA Niagara Blog
• Submit Your Ideas
• Sustainability
• Driving Change
• Pedestrian Safety
• Safety for Life
• Worst Roads
• Find a Branch

GET THE SAFARI SCOOP!

TICKETS & MEMBERSHIPS

Opening day.

May 14, 2023

CLOSING DAY

October 9, 2023

ADMISSION RATES

Adult (13-64) child (3-12), senior (65+).

Jun 10 - Sept 4

Adult (13-64) Child (3-12) Senior (65+)

New Fall Rates 2023 valid until Oct 09

Weekends* Sat & Sun

Weekdays Mon-Fri

Fall Appreciation Weekends Oct 14-29

Child under 2 yrs

Admission rates at safari niagara are all-inclusive and include access to all of our shows, tours, presentations, and activities. we are proud to offer free admission to children 2 & under. pricing varies depending on season. *please note in off-season not all attractions, food locations, shows are open. some animals may not be out depending on weather., general admission tickets.

Tickets purchased online will reflect the seasonal pricing. Tickets purchased at the in season price are valid all season. Tickets purchased for Off-Season are only valid during those times. Children 2 and under are always free. Members can come on any day for Free. Call us about our Group discount rates. We also have special rates for Birthday Parties , Group Picnics , Schools and Day Camps.

May 11, 2024

October 14, 2024

Jun 8 - Sept 2, 2024

Shoulder-Season

Spring Rates May 11 - Jun 7, 2024

Admission rates at Safari Niagara are all-inclusive and include access to all of our shows, tours, presentations, and activities. We are proud to offer FREE admission to children 2 & under. Pricing varies depending on season. *Please note in Shoulder-Season not all attractions, food locations, or shows are open. Some animals may not be out depending on weather.

Tickets purchased online will reflect the seasonal pricing. Tickets purchased at the In-Season price are valid all season. Tickets purchased for Off-Season are only valid during those times. Children 2 and under are always free. Members can come on any day for Free. Call us about our Group discount rates . We also have special rates for Birthday Parties , Group Picnics , Schools and Day Camps.

membership RATES

$99.95 + hst, not sure if you want to purchase a membership, try us out by purchasing a day admission ticket and upgrade to a season membership for only $50 receipt of admission purchase must be present at the time of upgrade. upgrade valid on the day of purchase only., become a member, join us for the full 2023 season for one low price don’t miss out on a summer full of safari fun.

Do you love Safari Niagara? Purchase a season membership and visit all summer long. To find out more about our Season Membership program and learn about the many perks of being a membership holder, see below.

membership RATES 2024 MEMBERSHIPS On SALE NOW!

$99.95 + hst      sale $74.95, try us out by purchasing a day admission ticket and upgrade to a season membership. receipt of admission purchase must be present at the time of upgrade. upgrade valid on the day of purchase only., join us for the full season for one low price don’t miss out on a summer full of safari fun.

Do you love Safari Niagara? Purchase a Season Membership and visit all summer long, as often as you like! Visit for an hour, or a whole day, whenever you want during our regular season. Skip the lines by entering through our exclusive Members Entrance at Guest Services. Discover more about our Membership program and learn about all the perks of the park below!

Membership Has it's Perks

• Safari Niagara is an all-inclusive park
• Enjoy unlimited access to Safari Niagara during our regular season, including activities, attractions, exhibits & more
• Free parking
• Skip the line Member exclusive entrance
• Over $200 in potential savings including redeemable coupons
• Bring A Friend Program
• $5.00 OFF Admission for Friends & Family - Coupon
• $10.00 OFF Admission for Friends & Family - Coupon
• Bring a Friend for Free - Coupon
• Free Hippo Feeding - Coupon
• 2 Free Budgie Sticks - Coupon
• 20% OFF* any 1 item at Stevensville Garden Gallery
• 20% OFF* any 1 item at Lilies Boutique (located in the Garden Gallery)
• 20% OFF* Concert Admission
• 20% OFF* Safari Lights Admission
• $30 OFF Adventure Day Camp
• $20 OFF  Birthday Party Packages
• 10% OFF at Safari Niagara’s Gift Shop
• 10% OFF* at  Stevensville Garden Gallery
• 10% OFF our  Behind the Scenes  Tours
• Special Member Days
• Enjoy unlimited access to daily educational  Keeper Talks
• Ride all day long on the Gator Express Tram
• Unlimited use of our Splash pad
• Furaha Fairgrounds, opened summer 2023 including 6 new kids carnival rides and patio eating area
• Stay tuned for new and exciting adventures for 2024

*Some conditions apply. Applies to regular priced merchandise only. Cannot be combined with any other offers.

event tickets

Join us for one of our exciting events, we have events running all year long! Click here to see our upcoming events.

BUY TICKETS

Safari Niagara, 2821 Stevensville Rd Fort Erie, ON L0S CAN

(905) 382-9669

[email protected]

Toll Free (866) 367-9669

Fax (905) 382-1619

Office Hours

Get the safari scoop.

Sign up for updates and exclusive offers!

Thanks for signing up! Welcome to the Pack!

Oops, there was an error submitting.

Please try again later

Copyright Safari Niagara. All Rights Reserved.

Safari Niagara Website Design by Jump Branding & Design Inc.

Privacy Policy | Terms and Conditions

Safari Niagara: Where Wildlife Meets Adventure 2023

Nestled in the picturesque region of Niagara Falls, Ontario, Safari Niagara is a hidden gem that promises an unforgettable adventure for nature enthusiasts, families, and wildlife lovers of all ages. This 150-acre nature park is a haven for both native and exotic animals, offering a unique blend of entertainment and education. Let’s embark on a virtual tour of Safari Niagara’s fascinating attractions and explore why it’s a must-visit destination.

The Safari Niagara Experience

As the name suggests, Safari Niagara offers visitors a safari experience like no other. The park’s expansive grounds provide ample space for a thrilling safari tour, allowing you to get up close and personal with a diverse range of animals. From the safety of specially designed safari vehicles, you can witness animals like bison, elk, and deer roam freely in large, natural enclosures that mimic their native habitats.

Guided by knowledgeable and passionate staff, these safari tours provide fascinating insights into the behaviour, conservation efforts, and natural history of these magnificent creatures. It’s an experience that both educates and entertains, making it perfect for families, school groups, and wildlife enthusiasts eager to learn more about the animal kingdom.

Enjoy Walk-Through Exhibits

One of the highlights of this Niagara Safari is its walk-through exhibits, where you can step directly into the world of the animals. One such exhibit is the Giraffe Encounter , where you can hand-feed these gentle giants and witness their towering grace up close.

The Lemur Walk is another must-visit attraction is the Lemur Walk. Here, you can walk among playful lemurs in their habitat. Observing their antics and curious nature is a unique and heartwarming experience, especially for children who might be seeing these creatures for the first time.

Safari Niagara’s Bird Aviary is a bird lover’s paradise. It’s home to a stunning array of bird species, including parrots, cockatiels, and lorikeets. Visitors can enter this expansive aviary and engage with these colourful and sociable birds. With nectar cups in hand, you can feed the lorikeets, allowing them to perch on your arm as they enjoy their snack.

For those fascinated by the world of reptiles, Safari Niagara’s Reptile World is a must-visit attraction. Here, you can encounter a variety of reptilian species, from snakes and turtles to lizards and tortoises. The highlight of Reptile World is the daily reptile encounter, where you can enjoy an introduction to some of the park’s most intriguing reptiles. It’s an educational experience that encourages a deeper understanding and appreciation for these incredible creatures.

SkyQuest Ropes Course

Experience SkyQuest, a unique multi-level ropes course at Safari Niagara, the first in Ontario. Challenge yourself on this elevated obstacle course, suspended 30 feet high, relying on ropes and beams for support. Children under 48 inches tall must have a chaperone.

Younger adventurers can explore SkyTykes, a similar course designed for smaller participants with balance beams, ropes, and bridges. No need to rush; conquer the course at your own pace, making it a great family adventure.

Safari Niagara Splash Pad

The Splash Pad typically opens in mid-June, subject to weather conditions. Check their website to confirm before you visit. The fully accessible splash pad offers an ideal spot for visitors of all ages and abilities to beat the summer heat at the zoo. This aquatic playground features interactive misters, sprayers, squirting teeter-totters, motorcycles, dolphins, and tipping fish.

Changing rooms and a patio area furnished with ample shaded umbrellas, tables, and chairs are available. Water depth is 10 inches.

Safari Niagara in Summer 2023

Everything (but food) is included with your admission fee when you visit Safari Niagara! Here is what you can expect to enjoy on your next visit.

Other good-to-know facts for visiting this year:

• Wagons are available to rent, but not wheelchairs or strollers for 2023
• Food is available for purchase and you can bring in your own food as well

How Much Is Admission To Safari Niagara?

Safari Niagara offers 2 price points – called “shoulder season” and “in-season” rates.

Shoulder Seasons: From May 13 to June 9 2023 then September 5 to October 9, 2023

Adult passes (ages 13-64) are $32.95 plus HST Child passes (ages 3-12) are $25.95 plus HST Senior passes (ages 65+) are $25.95 plus HST Children 2 and under are free.

In Season: Regular Season Rates are from June 10 to September 4, 2023

Adult passes (ages 13-64) are $39.95 plus HST Child passes (ages 3-12) are $32.95 plus HST Senior passes (ages 65+) are $32.95 plus HST Children 2 and under are free.

 If you would like to purchase Safari Niagara tickets now,  click here . And I hope you enjoyed our Safari Niagara photos!

Upcoming Events at Safari Niagara

In addition to their summer fun, Safari Niagara also hosts special events like Boo at the Zoo , a Christmas Lights drive-through experience and more!

Read Our Latest Articles

Catch up on what we’ve been covering! Here are our latest reads, hot off the presses just for you. Never miss an article when you subscribe to our weekly newsletter filled with kid-friendly fun and events.

Massive Christmas lights display arrives at Safari Niagara

by  Kevin Vallier

November 20, 2020  |   2 min read

Safari Niagara will be lit up this holiday season like never before. Glow Gardens has set up a three-kilometer, drive-thru Christmas lights display hosted in the outdoor park space at Safari Niagara in Stevensville.

The display officially opened earlier this week and will run until Jan. 2. Visitors will remain in their vehicles at all times on the 40-minute route, where they can tune into an exclusive holiday radio station, GLOW FM. Features include a towering three-storey light tree, an intricate Christmas castle, and 10-foot snowmen.

Glow Gardens has had a long history with the garden centre that is a sister company of Safari Niagara and so when Ryan Ward from Glow was thinking of where to set up one of their displays, Niagara was a logical choice. “It was pretty seamless and we have had great support from Safari Niagara,” explained Ward. He added that his group learned a lot from Safari Niagara when it came to the drive thru aspect of the lights display. “They have the experience, a great property with lots of space that fits our larger than life displays really well.”

The Safari Niagara display consists of millions of individual lights but Ward says more than the number of lights it’s the size of some of the displays that he feels children in particular will be in awe of. He said some of the displays are the size of small houses. “We have about 20 to 25 larger than life displays. “You’ll want to slow the car down to get a picture of some of these impressive displays.”

Visitors are encouraged to watch for giant packages that have been lost in the lights. Each time a present is spotted, guests can take a photo from the car window, and post it to social media with #GlowNiagara, for a chance to win weekly prizes.

Glow has displays in three other Canadian cities – Halifax, Edmonton and Langley – as well as one south of the border in Salt Lake City. “We needed to pivot this year due to COVID,” said Ward. Normally the Glow displays are indoors. “We had all the lights but couldn’t display them inside. Drive thru events were becoming popular and we thought it was a natural fit.”

One of the advantages Safari Niagara provides is existing double fencing around animal areas. Glow is able to use the second fence to string lights on. “There was a lot of natural infrastructure already in place which makes it much easier than say going into an empty field,” said Ward.

Wednesday was opening day for the drive-thru called Santa’s Lost Presents. Ward said they have had a lot of positive feedback on social media and tomorrow, the first Saturday it’s open, is already sold out. Overall more than 7,000 tickets have been sold in advance.

While there are other Christmas light displays in Niagara Ward doesn’t see them as competition. “Right now any event that is getting families out of the house and experiencing Christmas and the holiday season is great.” He said he applauds everyone that’s doing something like this. “The more, the merrier.”

To keep the event contactless, all tickets must be purchased in advance online for a specific entry time. E-tickets will be scanned through the car window. Visit glowgardens.com for more information.

Kevin has spent over two decades as a public relations professional in a variety of sectors including professional sports, the arts, industry and healthcare.  After tiring of the daily commute to Toronto he returned to Niagara and launched The Niagara Independent, an online news source published twice weekly.

He is a graduate of Brock University, Niagara College and the Richard Ivey School of Business. He was named one of Niagara’s 40 Under Forty in 2005.

Kevin is most proud of his twin daughters. He is also a triathlete and four-time Ironman finisher.

Your donations help us continue to deliver the news and commentary you want to read. Please consider donating today.

Watch CBS News

Missed the 2024 total solar eclipse? Watch video of moments from the event here.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/ link copied

By Aliza Chasan , Meghan Schiller , Christopher DeRose , Sara Moniuszko , Emily Mae Czachor , Luis Giraldo , Kerry Breen , Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 8:49 PM EDT / CBS News

The sky darkened for millions in the U.S. on Monday as the 2024 total solar eclipse worked its way across a swath of the country.

A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow that blocks out the light from the sun. The sun appeared to vanish behind the moon for minutes at a time as the eclipse traveled along its "path of totality," starting on Mexico's Pacific coast and moving northeast through more than a dozen states, from Texas to Maine, and into eastern Canada. 

More than 31 million people live along the path of totality, and many more flew  or drove to witness  the April 8 spectacle in person. Outside the path of totality, the rest of the continental U.S. got to see a partial eclipse ( if skies were clear ) as the moon blocked a portion of the sun. It will be decades before the next total solar eclipse appears in the U.S.

High school students help NASA collect data during eclipse

Students at Eminence High School in Indiana didn't just watch Monday's total solar eclipse. With the help of a special telescope, they collected data on the sun's corona for NASA. The information will help researchers understand how the sun converts magnetic energy into heat.  

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-798d430e link copied

"It was totally worth it. It was amazing."

In Erie, Pennsylvania, people gathered to watch the total solar eclipse and broke out in applause as they plunged into darkness. Emotions took over as everyone fixated on the ring in the sky. There was a lot of awe, disbelief and strained necks as people looked up for four minutes straight.

One family drove eight hours from Virginia.

"I honestly was not that excited about it. I was like, eight hours for three minutes? But it was totally worth it. It was amazing," one family member said.

Read more here .

-Meghan Schiller and Christopher DeRose

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-24321e03 link copied

Watch: Cleveland witnesses solar eclipse totality

Spectators in Cleveland, Ohio, saw the total solar eclipse around 3:15 p.m. EDT as the moon covered the sun for a little more than three minutes. CBS News' Dave Malkoff witnessed the event with Stephen Bowen, a NASA astronaut and retired U.S. Navy captain.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-db21479c link copied

What other celestial events can you see in 2024?

Stargazers have more events to look forward to this year following the April 8 eclipse. 

There are several meteor showers ahead, including the Lyrid meteor shower later this month, expected to peak April 21-22. There's also the Eta Aquariids, peaking May 4-5; the Perseids, peaking Aug. 12-13; and the Geminids, peaking Dec. 13-14.

Outside of the U.S., an annular solar eclipse will be visible in South America on Oct. 2. 

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-d1bb6ea8 link copied

Watch: Eclipse reaches totality over Arkansas and Illinois

Dozens of couples were married in a mass ceremony in Arkansas before the solar eclipse reached totality above them. Norah O'Donnell and Tony Dokoupil anchored CBS News' special coverage as the total eclipse passed over Arkansas and Illinois.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-a4926f06 link copied

Look at the solar eclipse too long? Doctors explain signs of eye damage.

Did you look up at the solar eclipse without your  safety glasses ? Looking at the sun — even when it's partially covered like during  the eclipse on April 8  — can cause eye damage.

There is no safe dose of solar ultraviolet rays or infrared radiation, said  Dr. Yehia Hashad , an ophthalmologist, retinal specialist and the chief medical officer at eye health company Bausch + Lomb.

"A very small dose could cause harm to some people," he said. "That's why we say the partial eclipse could also be damaging. And that's why we protect our eyes with the partial as well as with the full sun."

But how do you know if you've hurt your vision? We asked eye doctors what to know.  Read more here .

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-11a9535b link copied

Watch: Total solar eclipse seen in Indianapolis

Around 50,000 people gathered in Indianapolis, Indiana, at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway to experience the total solar eclipse. CBS News' Norah O'Donnell and Tony Dokoupil could see other planets in the solar system during the celestial event.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-0cb64af7 link copied

When is the next eclipse?

After the April 8 total solar eclipse, the next total solar eclipse that will be visible from the contiguous United States will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Before that, there will be an annular solar eclipse on Oct. 2 of this year, according to NASA. It will be visible in parts of South America, with some parts only able to experience a partial eclipse. A partial eclipse will also be visible in parts of Antarctica, the Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean and North America.

There will be two partial solar eclipses next year, according to NASA . On March 29, 2025, a partial eclipse will be visible in parts of Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, the Atlantic Ocean and the Arctic Ocean. On Sept. 21, 2025, there will be a partial eclipse in parts of Australia, Antarctica, the Pacific Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean.

There will also be two solar eclipses in 2026, including a total solar eclipse. On Feb. 17 of that year, there will be an annular solar eclipse visible in parts of Antarctica, according to NASA. A partial eclipse will be visible that day in parts of Antarctica, Africa, South America, the Pacific Ocean, the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean.

On Aug. 12, 2026, there will be a total solar eclipse visible in parts of Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small area of Portugal, according to NASA. A partial eclipse will be visible in parts of Europe, Africa, North America, the Atlantic Ocean, the Arctic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.

Read more here.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-d6f43631 link copied

Watch: Total solar eclipse in Dallas, Texas

Thousands gathered in Dallas, Texas, to experience the total solar eclipse through a partly cloudy sky. CBS News' Omar Villafranca witnessed the event at the Cotton Bowl Stadium surrounded by young Americans experiencing the celestial event for the first time.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-981ce219 link copied

Total eclipse puts on a brilliant show over western New York

Mid-afternoon daylight turned to dusk in seconds, and for a time even darker than that, over Niagara Falls as the moon directly blocked the sun for about three and a half minutes of totality. The temperature dropped as the sky darkened, with just a sliver of the sun's outer rim glowing and clearly visible before the eclipse shifted back to partial again.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-23468448 link copied

NASA debunks eclipse radiation myths

NASA said that over the years, people scared of eclipses have made up stories about the harm they can pose.

Several myths revolve around radiation. For instance, there's a false idea that radiation during a total solar eclipse will poison any food prepared during the eclipse.

Another common myth around the eclipse is the idea that the total solar eclipse produces harmful rays that can cause blindness, according to NASA. The space agency says that when the moon covers the sun during the eclipse, the corona emits electromagnetic radiation. That light is a million times fainter than the light of the sun itself and coronal light cannot cross 150 million kilometers of space, penetrate Earth's dense atmosphere and cause blindness.

Still, it's not safe to look at the solar eclipse without special glasses. Watching the sun during the eclipse before or after totality can cause retinal damage .  

People also falsely believe that pregnant individuals should not watch an eclipse. NASA says it's related to the false idea that harmful radiation is emitted during a total solar eclipse. 

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-98a58c28 link copied

Will animals be affected by the solar eclipse?

Because total solar eclipses happen so infrequently, animal experts aren't sure how they'll be impacted as the skies darken. In 2017, giraffes ran in circles, flamingos huddled together and rhinos looked confused at the Nashville Zoo , the Associated Press reported. Researchers prepared to study the eclipse's impact on animal behavior at the Fort Worth Zoo in Texas.

Veterinarians say pet owners may notice brief periods of confusion and fear among dogs and cats during the eclipse. Some pets may start their nighttime routine earlier as the sky darkens for the eclipse, yawning and heading for their beds.

Some animals that depend more on the light-dark cycle, like birds, may be more affected because the sky will darken during the eclipse, said Dr. Katie Krebs, a veterinarian and professor at University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-ed7c93ee link copied

Eclipse arrives in Niagara Falls and Buffalo, New York

A crescent-shaped sun shone bright white as the moon began to cover it and transition into totality over Niagara Falls at around 2:45 p.m. EDT. Sudden bursts of cheering rang out from the growing sea of viewers donning eclipse glasses and tilting cameras upward at the ready, as the partial eclipse peeked through dark clouds in fleeting intervals.

Officials had in the weeks leading up to the eclipse said that Buffalo and its surrounding area, which includes the U.S. side of Niagara Falls, was preparing to host an estimated 1 million tourists for the celestial show.

But crowds were thin across the city, save for those that gathered in droves at the scenic state park, where some visitors said they had come as early as dawn to secure their spot and where New York Gov. Kathy Hochul joined hopeful skywatchers as the eclipse approached totality over the region.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-9cc63a35 link copied

How long will the solar eclipse last?

Viewers at a spot along the path of totality will see a total eclipse lasting up to about 4 and a half minutes, with the length of time the sun is at least partially obscured lasting about 40 minutes.

The eclipse's path across the U.S. will dazzle viewers for about 3 and a half hours — from the time the eclipse comes into view along the U.S.-Mexico border near Eagle Pass, Texas, at 12:10 p.m. CT, until it exits into Canada from northern Maine at about 4:40 p.m. ET.

From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth over the Pacific to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the entire celestial show will last about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com .

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-46073e31 link copied

Illinois town in the path of totality hosts thousands of eclipse watchers

Southern Illinois expected about 200,000 people to pour in from all over to be in the path of totality for the solar eclipse. The city of Carbondale welcomed them with a block party featuring bands, food and drink on Sunday evening once the rain moved out.

Carbondale was also in the path of the 2017 total eclipse .

"Everybody talks about it being a miracle," said Scott Mitchner. "It is kind of a miracle. And it's a very amazing thing to see. And that first time, I know I'll never forget that. And I'm looking forward to a second time."

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-8b09ce0e link copied

Getting married during the eclipse

As the total solar eclipse moves reaches Russellville, Arkansas, more than 300 couples will weave their future together at a mass wedding. There, the total eclipse will last 4 minutes and 12 seconds, with totality occurring at 1:50 p.m. CT. 

Rodney Williams, a hot air balloonist from Branson, Missouri, is used to turning the skies into attractions. He organized the event as part of the city's "Total Eclipse of the Heart" festival.

The event offers marrying couples cake, a non-alcoholic toast and music — for free.

"Sometimes planning a wedding can be stressful," Williams said. "Not only the money but just all the decision-making and all of the different ideas that may not all coincide with each other."

Craig Wayne Boyd, a winner of "The Voice" singing contest, will officiate the ceremony and more than 600 newlyweds will have their first dance as he sings "Golden."

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-c74e98a8 link copied

Stunning photos of eclipse from Mexico and Texas

The total solar eclipse first made landfall along Mexico's Pacific coast before moving on to Texas, and photographers in both locations captured breathtaking images as the moon began to cover the sun.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-f4b49116 link copied

Biden: "Enjoy the eclipse. But play it safe."

The White House posted a short video of President Biden donning his eclipse glasses and encouraging Americans to enjoy the view. "But don't be silly, folks – play it safe and wear protective eyewear," the message said .

An eclipse is worth marveling at. But don't be silly, folks – play it safe and wear protective eyewear. pic.twitter.com/S6REAiZ735 — President Biden (@POTUS) April 8, 2024

Though Mr. Biden didn't mention it, his video prompted comparisons to a famous photo of then-President Trump standing on the same White House balcony during the 2017 eclipse and briefly looking up without protective glasses. 

Doctors say eclipse glasses are crucial to protect your eyes from sun damage.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-29e5245e link copied

Check your eclipse glasses: Illinois Health Department warning of recall

The Illinois Department of Public Health is warning people to check their eclipse glasses after a recall. 

The recalled glasses were sold through Amazon as "Biniki Solar Eclipse Glasses AAS Approved 2024 – CE & ISO Certified Safe Shades for Direct Sun Viewing (6 Packs)." 

The recalled glasses are labeled as "EN ISO 12312-1:2022." Proper eclipse safety glasses should carry the ISO designation of 12312-2.

However, the glasses  were not listed on Amazon's official recall page  and were still available for sale on Monday. A spokesperson said that the glasses had previously been identified as not being sourced from a supplier approved by the American Astronomical Society, and any customers who had purchased them were notified and provided refunds.

Since then, those glasses have been added to the  American Astronomical Society's approved list , and remain available for purchase.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-15041cf7 link copied

How to safely watch the total solar eclipse

Millions of people across the U.S. are excited to see the eclipse, but it's important to do so safely. Looking at the sun — even when it's partially covered like during an eclipse — can cause eye damage.

There is no safe dose of solar ultraviolet rays or infrared radiation, says Dr. Yehia Hashad, an ophthalmologist, retinal specialist and the chief medical officer at eye health company Bausch + Lomb.

Special glasses  are needed for protection during eclipse viewing; regular sunglasses aren't enough, even if you stack more than one pair. A pinhole viewer is another safe viewing option.

Eye problems caused by looking at the eclipse without special glasses may not be apparent immediately, sometimes appearing one to a few days following the event. It could affect just one or both eyes. And while some will regain normal visual function, sometimes the damage is permanent. 

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-f507a58a link copied

What time will the eclipse reach peak totality?

Peak viewing time will depend on your location. The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean on Monday morning before reaching North America at about 10:57 a.m. PT, beginning in parts of Mexico. 

The path of totality — where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety, of course) — then crosses over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, arriving at Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT. 

It completes its journey across the U.S. at about 4:40 p.m. ET, passing over Caribou, Maine, and into Canada.

Here is a look at the expected times in 13 cities along the path of totality:  

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-f90298da link copied

What are the different types of solar eclipses?

While the April 8 eclipse will be a total solar eclipse, there are actually several types of solar eclipses . They occur when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth, either partially or totally blocking the sun's light along its path..

During the April 8 total solar eclipse, the moon will completely block the light of the sun across parts of the U.S. , allowing people in the "path of totality" — the center of the moon's shadow — to experience a total eclipse.

The sun will have a crescent shape as the moon begins to cover it, then the sky will get dimmer as the moon covers more and more of the sun, until it eventually covers the full sun during several minutes of totality. During totality, viewers may see a corona, the outermost part of the sun's atmosphere.

An annular solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth when it is either at or near its farthest point from Earth, according to NASA. With the moon so far away, it won't completely cover the sun. During this type of eclipse, the moon will appear as a dark disk on top of the sun, with a bright ring around it.

A partial solar eclipse happens when the sun, moon and Earth are not perfectly aligned as the moon passes between the sun and Earth, NASA explains. Only part of the sun is covered by the moon during this type of eclipse, giving it a crescent shape.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-6835508d link copied

How many people live in the path of the eclipse?

An estimated 31.6 million people live in the path of totality for the April 8 eclipse. An additional 150 million people are within 200 miles of the path of totality, according to NASA, and millions more will be able to see a partial eclipse. 

That's more than were in the path of the last one to cross the U.S. , in 2017.

"This eclipse, in particular, is I think set to be even more spectacular," astronomer Lucianne Walkowicz told CBS Chicago.

"Totality will actually last almost a full two minutes longer in some places" compared to last time, she said.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-df06084d link copied

Will the weather be clear for eclipse viewing today?

Cloud cover and storms may interfere with eclipse viewing in Texas, where volatile weather is expected. For Dallas and Austin, "it's a tough go," says CBS New York weathercaster Lonnie Quinn, while San Antonio will have "some of the worst weather of all."

But farther north and east, better conditions are expected, giving many in the Midwest and Northeast a good chance to see the eclipse. Some clouds may move in and out over Missouri, Indiana and into western New York, says The Weather Channel meteorologist Jim Cantore. 

Quinn has more details on the forecast in the video below.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-82620d12 link copied

How to know if your eclipse glasses are safe

The only glasses that should be used to look at a partially eclipsed sun are eclipse glasses that meet an international standard, ISO 12312-2, according to the American Optometric Association. 

Don't use sunglasses, smoked glass, an unfiltered telescope and magnifiers or polarized filters as a way to view the eclipse. Looking at an eclipse without proper protection can cause eye damage.

Real eclipse glasses  will have a notation about the international standard somewhere on their body, to verify that they reduce visible sunlight to a safe level, and block ultraviolet and infrared radiation.

Before buying, make sure the glasses are advertised as meeting this standard. And beware, there are many fakes on the market.

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-e978064d link copied

How to make solar eclipse glasses, cereal box viewers and pinhole projectors to watch the eclipse safely

While solar eclipse glasses are available for sale, there are several safe alternatives you can make or find at home to help you enjoy the eclipse, experts say. 

If you have access, you can use No. 14 welder's glasses or aluminized mylar plastic sheets. You can also make a homemade pinhole projector using a piece of paper or create an eclipse viewer from a cereal box. Here are instructions.

Eye protection during the eclipse is important to prevent eye damage. Don't use normal sunglasses — they do not offer enough protection.

Read more here

• https://www.cbsnews.com/live-updates/watch-total-solar-eclipse-2024/#post-update-7d662c3d link copied

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.