Just seven years after we aligned with the path of totality for one of earth’s rarest events, we find ourselves in line for another on Monday, April 8, 2024.  We think everyone had a great time in 2017 as well, since our lodging is close to full.  Act fast to reserve your stay!  This year, we’re planning a two-day event surrounding the eclipse.  On Sunday, April 7th, bands will play from 12pm to 8pm at Valle Catholic Desert in the heart of Downtown for our “Dancin’ in the Dark” Jamfest.  We’re providing everything but lawn chairs, so bring your own and come prepared for a day of food and fun.  A biergarten will be open on site, and bounce houses will be set up for kids.  Next to the bounce houses will be Kona Ice and Luna’s Shaved Ice, serving up electrolyte-laden treats and eclipse-only Moonsicles, respectively.  At the top of the above flier, you’ll find the list of bands headlined by Stix cover band, Grand Allusion.  That same day, our N. Main St. shops are inviting people to dress up in eclipse-themed costumes to walk our “Little Bohemia” district where you can enjoy art, street-side fire pits, and more food.  They’re serving up a different flavor, there.

On the big day, the focus will turn to the Ste. Genevieve County Community Center where the public can set up their own personal tailgates on the grounds to take in an unobstructed view of the eclipse.  The Community Center is much more developed than it was during the last eclipse, and facilities will be open: from restrooms to refuge from inclement weather.  Parking is first come, first serve, but don’t feel bad if you’re not an early riser.  The Ste. Gen Trolley will run between downtown and the Community Center all day, from 9am to 5pm.  Pickup/Dropoff points can be found at the Museum Learning Center, the Welcome Center, Audubon’s, and Valle Catholic Desert parking lots (aerial renderings can be found on the flier).  The National Park Service, the State Historic Site, the Museum Learning Center, and the Ste. Genevieve County Library will be working together to provide fun activities for kids throughout the day.  One of the more interesting offerings will be the National Historical Park’s debut of Harvard’s LightSound device for the visually impaired.  The device will translate the eclipse into an auditory experience for onlookers.  While this is for people who will have limited vision of the event, it’s something that can please any scientific mind.

Commemorative Eclipse Coin – ASL Pewter

During the weekend, you must stop by ASL Pewter to pick up your commemorative Eclipse coin, hand-stamped by owner/operator Tom Hooper.  Tom and Patricia have been mainstays of the artisan community here in Ste. Gen and their work has been featured in luxury settings around the world.  Don’t miss the opportunity to grab this one-of-a-kind token of your Eclipse experience!

Total Solar Eclipse

Also on Monday, the beloved Audubon’s Hotel and Restaurant will host their own viewing party at their Biergarten.  Local favorites, Crossroads, will make their second appearance in two days for that one as well!

If you have any direct questions, feel free to email [email protected] for more.

Other happenings that weekend!

Saturday, April 6th:

Total Solar Eclipse

Music Art Love (137 N. Main St.) is showing 2001: A Space Odyssey in honor of the eclipse.  For those coming in Saturday night, this is an opportunity to join in owner/operator Christine Alexander’s warm, community tradition of showing weekly movies in her shop.  Popcorn and snacks are available as well as libations!  Doors open at 6:30pm, movie at 7 pm.   *Bring in your eclipse glasses for a free bag of popcorn!  Donations are welcome!