Saturday, April 27, 2024
For those looking for ways to celebrate the 2024 Great American Eclipse, Gatesville’s pre-eclipse festival provides an opportunity to gather and enjoy some local entertainment.
The “Block (Out the Sun) Party” will take place in the downtown square during Saturday and Sunday leading up to the total eclipse on Monday, April 8. The festival will feature a variety of food trucks, vendors, and various activities for kids and adults.
“Some cities have planned large events in the hopes of drawing in a large number of visitors. We approached our plans a little differently,” Eclipse Coordinator Cheri Shepherd said. “We knew that a certain number of people would be coming to Gatesville, regardless of what we planned. We wanted to make sure that our residents and visitors had the best possible experience during and leading up to the eclipse.”
Activities include a petting zoo, painting with a twist, goat roping, photo props, pickleball and cornhole tournaments, live music, and more. Visitors will also have a chance to view and support local artists through the “Art in the Shadow” exhibit that will feature various mediums of Texas and eclipse themed artwork.
With thousands of out-of-town visitors expected to arrive in Gatesville, the festival will also be an opportunity to support local businesses and organizations.
“It was an opportunity to educate and entertain residents and visitors while allowing small businesses and non-profits to benefit,” Shepherd said.
The event will be held Saturday, April 6, from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. and Sunday, April 7, from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Admission to the festival is free.
After the event on Saturday, NASA ambassador, Liam Finn, will provide a sold-out educational presentation called Syzygy at 6 p.m. in the Gatesville City Auditorium. Ticket holders should arrive by 5:45 p.m. Any seats that are unclaimed shortly before 6 p.m. will be released to the public first come, first served.
However, for those missing out on the talk, NASA representatives will return on the day of the eclipse to set up viewing equipment at the Gatesville Sports Complex baseball fields and will share educational information with visitors. Learn more about the viewing event at GatesvilleTxEclipse.com.
“As plans have evolved, I think the festival will be an opportunity for residents and visitors to make some wonderful memories surrounding the eclipse experience,” Shepherd said.
For more updates about the festival and to sign up as a volunteer or vendor, visit www.gatesvilletxeclipse.com/block-out-the-sun-party
