Discover CharlestonCharleston SC: Total Solar Eclipse Over The Holy City

By Abby Hibbard, Guest Contributor 

There’s a certain buzz in the air around Charleston right now. A distinct atmosphere and feel. It’s anticipation. It’s excitement. It’s preparation. The talk of the town, and much of the country for that matter, is the total solar eclipse set to happen on Monday, August 21, 2017 at approximately 2:46 pm EST. Every resident in the Holy City, as well as the quarter million visitors set to descend upon Charleston SC, is ready to witness the city go dark in the middle of this August afternoon.

We’re all getting prepared for this unique celestial event, which for some is once-in-a-lifetime. Everyone is making their plans, purchasing their NASA approved eclipse glasses (there aren’t many left!), and deciding on where to watch the event. Choices range from staying at home to view the eclipse from their back yard, taking their boat out on the water, or they’ve already purchased a ticket to one of the countless events happening throughout Charleston. From free viewing spots such as Battery Park in Charleston’s downtown historic district, or beachside on Folly Beach, to private ticketed events like Total Eclipse of the Creek at Tavern and Table or the rooftop viewing party at The Restoration Hotel, you really can’t go wrong as long as you’ve claimed your spot for this incredible solar event.

For residents and visitors alike, we’ve been told more or less to “stay where you are” for safety reasons. The Ravenel Bridge walking path will be closed to the public from noon until 4pm and you’re prohibited from attempting to watch from any city garage rooftop.  The city has even paused public transportation, Carta, from 2:41 to 2:53 pm to provide for safe driving conditions, but if you happen to be on one of the buses at that time, they’ll provide you with eclipse glasses so you can enjoy the sun and moon show too.

There have even been tall tales of some Lizardmen that apparently comes out during eclipses. Now, if that one’s true, we’ll let you know of any sightings after the fact! But for now, the Holy City is preparing for the influx of visitors and daylong celebrations ahead that come with being noted as one of the few cities in the path of the total solar eclipse in Charleston SC.

Note: The solar eclipse is at the top of everyone’s mind this weekend, but there’s so much more to discover in Charleston beyond this unique celestial event.