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New Hampshire Welcomes the Great North American Solar Eclipse

New Hampshire is gearing up for a celestial event that promises to be a sight to behold—the Great North American Solar Eclipse. With the Great North Woods set to witness the eclipse in its totality, excitement is mounting. This rare phenomenon will see the area from Lancaster to the Canadian border plunged into darkness, offering a unique spectacle for both residents and visitors alike. The rest of New Hampshire will also enjoy a near-total experience, with the eclipse reaching about 95 percent totality.

The duration of totality in the Great North Woods will be approximately 3 minutes and 30 seconds. However, depending on your location within this region, the timing may slightly vary. This event places New Hampshire at the heart of the action, leading to expectations of heavy traffic as enthusiasts flock to witness this natural marvel.

State and local officials are advising visitors to stick to state highways for both their arrival and departure to avoid congestion on local roads not designed for high traffic volumes. This influx of visitors is not limited to Coos County; it's anticipated that roads throughout New Hampshire will feel the impact. Motorists are encouraged to heed traffic control instructions and be prepared for slower travel, especially when heading south after the eclipse.

For real-time traffic updates, the New Hampshire Department of Transportation (NHDOT) recommends following their social media channels and checking newengland511.org.

New Hampshire holds the distinction of being one of only 13 states to experience the eclipse's totality, a phenomenon not expected to recur until 2079. This event is anticipated to be even more remarkable than the one in 2017, with a wider path of totality allowing more people to experience the full effect.

An estimated 31.6 million people find themselves in the path of totality this year, a significant increase from 2017. This wider audience, coupled with a range of planned local events, from viewing parties at ski resorts and mountains to celebrations at breweries and inns, promises a vibrant and communal atmosphere.

From educational talks with astronomers to festive gatherings with themed refreshments, New Hampshire is set to make the most of this awe-inspiring natural event. As the state prepares to welcome visitors and locals alike for this once-in-a-lifetime experience, the excitement is palpable.

Remember, a total solar eclipse is more than just a dark sky; it's a moment of wonder that showcases the beauty and complexity of our cosmos. Whether you're viewing from the majestic heights of Mount Washington or enjoying themed festivities across the state, April 8, 2024, promises to be a day to remember in New Hampshire.

April 8 Events:

  • Cranmore Mountain Resort: Solar Eclipse Viewing Party, noon to 3 p.m., activities at the Meister Hut. Viewing tickets available at cranmore.com.
  • Purity Spring Resort: Solar Eclipse Viewing Party, 2-4:30 p.m., at King Pine base lodge. Includes souvenirs and discounts. Call (603) 367-8896.
  • Mt. Washington Auto Road: Eclipse viewing at 4,000 feet, 1:30-4 p.m. Book at mt-washington.com or (603) 466-3988.
  • Jackson Ski Touring & Tin Mountain Conservation Center: Eclipse party, 2-4 p.m. Register at jacksonxc.org.
  • Wildcat Mountain: Eclipse party with skiing, riding, and BBQ, 3-5 p.m. Details at skiwildcat.com.
  • Conway Scenic Railroad: Eclipse Train with dome car views. Book at conwayscenic.com.
  • Tuckerman Brewing Co.: Eclipse party with music by DJ Kris10, starts at noon. Visit tuckermanbrewing.com.
  • Castle in the Clouds: Eclipse Watch Party, 2-4:30 p.m. Free eclipse glasses and solar telescopes available. More info at castleintheclouds.org.
  • Believe in Books Literacy Foundation: "Solar Eclipse In the Wood" event, 1-4 p.m., free and open to the public. Visit believeinbooks.org.
  • Inn at Thorn Hill: Eclipse Outdoor Viewing Party, 2-4:30 p.m. Includes food and drinks. $25 at the door or complimentary for guests.
  • Christmas Farm Inn: Eclipse View Party, 2-4:30 p.m. Features themed BBQ and desserts. Tickets $20 or complimentary for guests.
  • Omni Mount Washington Resort: SolarBration Viewing Party at Rosebrook Lodge, Bretton Woods. Includes themed entertainment.
  • Starlight Lodge: Solar Eclipse 2024 viewing party package with appetizers and refreshments. Limited space available.
  • The Wentworth: Eclipse viewing reception, noon-4 p.m. Includes discussions, telescope views, and themed refreshments. $75 per person. Call (603) 383-9700.

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