'I can’t wait for it': Port Stanley, Ont. prepares for total solar eclipse
Two weeks before a rare total solar eclipse turns day into night across the region, towns in the direct path of totality are making preparations for the celestial spectacle.
The lakeside town of Port Stanley finds itself in the path of totality for the April 8 solar eclipse, and the Pierside Pub is one of many spots in the small beach town that is planning to observe the astronomical phenomenon by serving up special eclipse-themed drinks and handing out protective eyewear.
"We're going to be open early. It’s not summer yet, but we are treating it like it's a summer day, and then I guess a nighttime day and then back to a summer day because it's going to be a total eclipse in Port Stanley," said Pierside Pub owner Brent Noels.
Over at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 410, members are also preparing to witness the rare event.
"The kids are off school, everybody is ordering their glasses, it will be a packed house here watching the eclipse, and I can’t wait for it,” said Tom McLeod.
For Port Stanley resident Pat Templeton, he is planning on a more private viewing experience.
"I live on the lake and I have a wonderful place to view it from. I’m going to sit outside and watch it from my yard,” he told CTV News London.
Marion Rose lives along the shores of Lake Erie in Elgin County, and she will be throwing a big viewing party for her family and friends.
"We are so excited about it. We honestly have known about it for the last year, my cousin from Vancouver sent me a text and said they wanted to come and camp out here because of the event,” said Rose.
While London will experience 99 per cent totality, the full spectacle of a total solar eclipse is only visible within a narrow path just south of the city. Within the band, and if weather permits, viewers will see the moon completely cover the sun, plunging the region into darkness and exposing the sun’s atmosphere, also known as its corona, creating a brilliant halo.
Elgin County lies directly in this path, making it a prime viewing location. The maximum eclipse will occur at 3:17 p.m., lasting just over two minutes.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.