2024 Solar Eclipse FAQs

Posted on March 9, 2024

The 2024 Solar Eclipse, aka The Great American Eclipse, is happening on April 8. And though it’s big news, there’s still a lot of questions surrounding this unique phenomenon. If you’re spending eclipse weekend in the Santa Claus, Indiana, area, you might have even more questions about where to watch, how to get around, and more. 

Not to worry! We’ve put together a helpful list of solar eclipse FAQs to keep you educated, informed, and safe as you celebrate at sites throughout the Santa Claus, Indiana, area!  

What to Know About the Solar Eclipse in Santa Claus, Indiana 

Where can I find solar eclipse viewers? 
When you’re experiencing a total solar eclipse, safety first! And the most important safety measure is protecting your peepers. 

While supplies last, eclipse viewers will be available at: Spencer County Visitors Bureau, Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, Lincoln State Park, Santa Claus Brewing Co., Lincoln Heritage Public Library (Dale), and Holiday Foods. 

Please note that while many locations are providing viewers for free, some spots are offering the glasses only to customers and some may charge a small fee. 

Where can I watch the solar eclipse in the Santa Claus, Indiana, area? 
From the Legend Parking Lot at Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari to Lincoln State Park, there are plenty of great public spots to experience the 2024 Solar Eclipse. You can see a full listing of viewing locations throughout the Santa Claus, Indiana, area here. 

Be mindful not to park on private property. With so many public viewing areas, everyone should be able to find the perfect approved spot for experiencing the eclipse!  

How long does the eclipse last? 
The whole eclipse from start to finish will last approximately 2 ½ hours. But we know that’s not really what you’re asking… you want to know how long totality (total darkness) lasts! The Santa Claus, Indiana, area, will experience approximately two minutes of darkness, starting at 2:04 pm CT. 

Can I take photos of the eclipse with my phone? 
Technically, yes… if you have a specialized eclipse filter between your camera and the sun. Since most of us won’t have that, we recommend simply enjoying the experience. And if you must have a photo, make it the mental kind!  

Where can I find a souvenir to remember the eclipse in Santa Claus, Indiana? 
Several spots throughout the area are commemorating the 2024 Solar Eclipse with fun keepsakes created especially for the occasion. Find your favorite at the Santa Claus Christmas Store, Santa Claus Museum & Village, Patriot Nutrition, Holiday Foods, Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, or Monkey Hollow Winery and Distillery. 

Several businesses throughout the area will have special hours over eclipse weekend. Check out our What’s Open page to find hours of operation.

Are there any special events or activities happening over eclipse weekend? 
There sure are! Santa Claus Brewing Co. will kick off the weekend with live music on Friday night. The fun continues over the weekend with activities at Santa Claus Museum & Village, Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, Lincoln Heritage Public Library, and Monkey Hollow Winery and Distillery. On Sunday, it’s a Total Eclipse of the Park at Lincoln State Park with music, food, family activities, and more.  

See the full schedule of Solar Eclipse Weekend events. Or stop by the Spencer County Visitors Bureau at 25 West Christmas Boulevard in Santa Claus to pick up a printed guide and other helpful resources, plus get expert suggestions from our staff!  

Where should I eat?  
Serving up everything from pizza to BBQ to eclipse-themed specialties, local restaurants are ready to welcome you all weekend long. In addition to our local hot spots, a variety of food trucks will be available at eclipse weekend events throughout the area. 

Find good eats at a nearby restaurant or enjoy food truck offerings to tickle your taste buds at a special weekend event.  

What if there are traffic issues or an emergency? 
Being in the path of totality, the Santa Claus, Indiana, area is expected to see an influx of visitors for the eclipse. We’re used to welcoming big crowds, so we’re well-equipped to handle the extra visitors. But issues can always arise, so be prepared.  

Tune in to our local radio station, WAXL 103.3, for traffic updates and other announcements. Download our area map to help you navigate an alternate route if needed. And in the event of an emergency, call 911 if you can or text if you can’t.  

What else do I need to know? 
We think you’re in pretty good shape with the info listed above but always plan ahead. Think of items to pack and have handy in case of an emergency or a traffic delay. Bottled water? Snacks? Phone charger? A playlist of eclipse-themed tunes? Our destination visitor guide to help plan your return trip? And don’t forget your solar eclipse viewers to protect your peepers!  

If you haven’t booked a place to stay for eclipse weekend in the Santa Claus, Indiana, area, it’s not too late! With so many solar-ific events and activities planned, it’s the perfect time to enjoy a weekend getaway. Find a place to stay at Santa’s Lake Cottages, Lincoln Pines Lakefront Resort, Santa’s Lodge, Saint Meinrad Archabbey Guest House, or a local vacation rental.