10 Things to Know If Traveling to Total Solar Eclipse

MOST OF THESE SUGGESTIONS COME FROM THE CITY OF KERRVILLE, TX BUT COULD BE HELPFUL IN ANY CITY/TOWN ALONG THE ECLIPSE PATHWAY

The Texas Hill Country community of Kerrville will experience a full 4 minutes and 25 seconds of totality, which will occur at 1:32 PM CST.

The Kerrville Eclipse Festival will take place on April 8, 2024, at Louise Hays Park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and NASA officials will be on-site to capture the best view for their national broadcast. American, alternative folk band, Judah and the Lion will play just after totality.

While the city is elated to host guests for such a significant phenomenon, they are actively taking measures to keep locals and visitors safe. Due to the increased volume of anticipated traffic, the Kerrville Eclipse Festival team, in conjunction with the City of Kerrville and local officials, has provided informative tips to ensure the enjoyment and safety of all attendees.

Top 10 things to know before you go:

Cash: Visitors are encouraged to bring cash, as we anticipate network disruptions that may interfere with credit card transactions. Do not rely on cellular service.
Carpool or Rideshare: Carpool or rideshare is encouraged for travelers coming into the city to help alleviate overcrowding of vehicles. Make every effort to reach your viewing location before 11 a.m.
Eyewear: Eye damage can occur by viewing the eclipse without proper eye safety. ISO-certified eclipse glasses will be available for purchase at Kerrville City Hall Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. or Kerrville-Schreiner Park 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eclipse glasses will also be for sale at the Kerrville Eclipse Festival on the day of the event, while supplies last.
Printed Materials: Guests are strongly advised to print maps, directions, hotel reservations, receipts, etc. before their trip in anticipation of cellular service being disrupted.
Comfortable Clothing: Travelers should review the weather and wear comfortable clothing, bring hats or visors, sun protection, and comfortable walking shoes to help reduce vehicular traffic. If weather permits, plan to take a dip in the Guadalupe River at the Kerrville Eclipse Festival.
Extra Travel Time: Attendees should plan for extra transportation time to and from the community as delays are expected. If you plan to travel, depart early and consider packing water, food, sunscreen, umbrellas, and something to entertain you and your fellow travelers in case you encounter heavy traffic.
Event Gear: Spectators are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets for a cozy and pleasant viewing experience. Bringing tents to the event is not permitted.
Food: Out-of-town guests are recommended to pack snacks and groceries in advance to stay fueled as supplies may be limited once in Kerrville. Food vendors will be available at the Kerrville Eclipse Festival.
Stay Hydrated: Visitors are highly encouraged to bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. It is recommended to have plenty of extra water in your vehicle in the event of prolonged traffic delays.
Stay Until the End: To avoid post-event congestion, Kerrville Eclipse Festival goers are advised to “stay for the totality” of the event and enjoy additional festivities such as food vendors, astronomy speakers, and American folk band, Judah & the Lion, who is headlining the festival.

For more information about the Kerrville Eclipse Festival, the eclipse, and safety precautions, please visit http://www.kerrvilleeclipse.com and the Kerrville Eclipse Festival event on Facebook.