Did you know that there are two to five solar eclipses each year, with a total eclipse taking place every 18 months? However, whether you can view that eclipse depends on where you are in the world. This year, on April 8th, the solar eclipse will pass over North America which means Americans will get the chance to experience this phenomenon together and what better way than to celebrate this magical moment with a party? With 3 minutes of total eclipse duration and ample prepared space for viewing, Searcy, Arkansas is the perfect place to come for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse!
Conveniently located on Hwy 67/167 only 45 minutes from Little Rock, less than 2 hours from Memphis, and less than 6 hours from Nashville, Jackson, and Birmingham, Searcy is a small town that is BIG on fun. This year they will be welcoming eclipse visitors and tourists to their charming town filled with plenty of local dining, shopping, festivals, and historical & cultural arts experiences. But why celebrate the solar eclipse with a trip?
The last total solar eclipse passed over the United States in 2017 for the first time in almost a century and was a massive travel event with millions of travelers flocking the path to totality (the predicted path of the eclipse.) The total solar eclipse in 2024 will be the first time in recorded history that Searcy has been in the path of totality and will be again at the next total solar eclipse to pass over the United States in 2045.
Total Eclipse Events in Searcy, Arkansas
Searcy has a host of events planned around the eclipse week in hopes that travelers and locals will have a safe and exciting experience.
Galaxy Fest (Star Wars themed festival)
Galaxy Fest, a Star Wars-themed festival – will run the day of the eclipse from 11 am-7 pm, complete with heavy metal cosplay Star Wars band headliner Galactic Empire and a 50 ft geodesic metal fire dome as well as many other activities planned to transport you to a galaxy far, far away.
Berryhill Park/ASUB-Searcy
This 7.2 acre park has 2 pavilions, picnic areas, a playground, tennis courts and more for a full day of family fun. This year, you can catch the Total Eclipse at Berryhill Park/ASUB-Searcy!
Rialto Theater Space Themed Week
The entire week leading up to the eclipse, Rialto Theater will show space themed movies.
Main Street Searcy Festival
The Sunday before the eclipse, Main Street Searcy will be hosting a festival in downtown Searcy, Arkansas.
Art Alley
Art Alley is a product of the Creative Group of Arkansas. This drab alley has been transformed into a vibrant, Instagram-worthy stop. During the eclipse festivities, Art Alley will be taken over with space and eclipse themed artwork from local artists and students.
Arkansas Symphony Orchestra Concert
On the evening of Tuesday, April 9, the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra will host a concert in Benson Auditorium featuring spaced-themed music.
Total Eclipse Viewing Sites in Searcy, Arkansas
- Pioneer Village
- Lion Stadium
- Raiders Stadium
SHOPPING IN SEARCY, ARKANSAS
While visiting Searcy, Arkansas for the celebration, You might as well get a little retail therapy in. Here are some great logical shops to visit.
Doorframes
Home is where the heart is. At Doorframes Boutique, you will find treasures for your home, gifts for those you love, and accessories for yourself!
Shoetique
Looking for a new pair of kicks? Shoetique has you covered with the largest variety of shoes from a locally owned business in Searcy!
Books by the Pound
Just as the name suggests, if you are a bookworm, Books by the Pound is a shop you wont want to miss.
RESTAURANTS IN SEARCY, ARKANSAS
Daisy’s Lunchbox
Suzanne Raiford, the owner and chef extraordinaire at Daisy’s Lunchbox Cafe and Bakery, was named the South Central Regional Recipe Winner by General Mills. Clearly Suzannes recipes are incredible! Head on over to Daisy’s Lunchbox for some fun eclipse themed treats.
Knightfire BBQ
In a world of high-tech smokers, Knightfire BBQ goes back to the real way of getting authentic barbecue and relive the days of old. Knightfire Fire BBQ touts that their simple but long process and in my mind the only way to achieve real craft barbecue. My mouth is watering already!
Wild Sweet Williams
Wild Sweet William’s is locally owned and operated by Lisa Ford and her awesome team. Visit Wild Sweet Williams to enjoy fresh crafted daily baked goods.
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