Recreation and Culture Events

Solar Eclipse

Join us on Monday, April 8th, 2024, to witness the total solar eclipse in Niagara Falls, ranked #11 on National Geographic's "Best of the World" list for travel adventures. The moon is expected to completely cover the sun in the direct path of totality, making this a rare opportunity to observe this phenomenon. The event will last for almost four minutes, starting at 2:04 pm and ending at 4:31 pm, with totality occurring at 3:18 pm. The total solar eclipse will traverse North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. After 2024, the next chance to witness such an event in North America will be in more than 20 years. For more information on the Eclipse phenomena click here. Looking for some great ways to enjoy the day?

Free All Ages Community Activities on Monday, April 8th

  • MacBain Community Centre
    • Pickleball – 12:15pm-2:15pm
    • Table Tennis – 1:00pm-8:45pm
    • Badminton – 2:30-4:30
    • Basketball –  4:45pm-8:45pm
    • Open Swim 
      • Leisure Pool – 8:00am-8:45pm
      • Lane Pool (no slide) - 1:00pm-7:00pm
    • Community Centre Library PD Day Fun - 10:00am-11:30am
      • For this special PD Day all activities will be about space and the eclipse. Join us for games, crafts, obstacle courses, scavenger hunts and more. Have some fun at the library on your day off from school!
    • Glow Crafts - 11:45am-1:45pm
      • Don't let anything eclipse your creativity! Using glow in the dark beads and paint, join us for a variety of crafts including glow bracelets, pipe cleaner figures, painting, and more!
      • Spots are limited! Click here to register. 
    • Glow Dance Party - 2:15pm-4:15pm
      • We'll be covering the windows with black out paper and providing a whole bunch of glow sticks, glow crowns, and more while playing family friendly music! Snacks and drinks will also be available. 
      • Spots are limited! Click here to register. 
  • Gale Centre and Chippawa Arena
    • Public Skate - 1:00pm-5:00pm

Where to Watch the Solar Eclipse

  • Your own front or backyard and neighbourhood parks – If you can see the sky from your front or backyard, or community park staying home or close to home is a great option. The city anticipates many visitors and traffic to the community.
  • Firemen’s Park- 2275 Dorchester Road - Designated passive north end viewing area with parking and access to indoor washrooms.
  • MacBain Community Centre Park – 7150 Montrose Road - Designated passive viewing area with lots of parking with access to indoor washrooms and café.
  • Patrick Cummings Park – Chippawa Arena – 9000 Sodom Road - Designated passive south end viewing park with lots of parking and access to indoor washrooms.
  • By the Falls – Great viewing at Table Rock and other NPC greenspaces. Recommend accessing by public transportation, walking, or cycling.