On Monday, April 8, we'll experience a near-total eclipse in southeast Michigan. To catch the total eclipse, you'll have to go south to Ohio or Indiana or across the border to southern Ontario. Luna Pier in southern Monroe County is the only Michigan city to reach totality. But plenty of people will be looking to the sky (safely, we hope) on that day here in metro Detroit to see the moon almost entirely cover the sun.

You will want to pick up special glasses to wear for the event - they're available online and at select stores like Lowe's and Walmart. Look to NASA for safety instructions.

Yes, you can step outside your door to watch it, but if you want to watch with others, plenty of places around metro Detroit will host visitors to learn more about and watch the event. Some events have sold out, but there are still many options. Here are a few places to catch the very rare event. 

When

April 8, 2024. The eclipse will start at 1:58 p.m. and will reach 99% totality at 3:14 p.m., ending at 4:27 p.m.

Weather

We all know it could do anything this time of year. As of right now, it looks like it could be partly cloudy on April 8.

Where to watch

Detroit Riverfront - The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is hosting a viewing party at Cullen Plaza and the Outdoor Adventure Center. Glasses will be available, as well as snacks, and they'll have a telescope to look through, too. No RSVP required.

Cranbrook Institute of Science - Cranbrook will host a viewing party at the Cranbrook Institute of Science from 11:00 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eclipse viewing glasses will be available for purchase, and visitors can learn more about astronomy at the Institute.

Local libraries - Many area libraries are holding eclipse parties at their main and satellite branches. Check here for the various Detroit celebrations, with educational activities leading up to them the week before.

Ann Arbor - The Leslie Science and Nature Center will have hands-on activities for families starting at 1:30 p.m.

State Parks - Sterling State Park is in Monroe, so it's closer to totality. They'll have glasses, food trucks, and programs for visitors. Lake Hudson Recreation Area and Erie State Game Area are also near the border and will host events. You can also try Lake Erie Metropark and Lake St. Clair Metropark. We're sure there will be more than a few people at Belle Isle (even though there's no official event), so you might want to find a spot early.