What better way to enjoy a glass of Pinot Noir than to pair it with a celestial wonder like an eclipse? On April 8, a total solar eclipse will take place that can be seen across North America, making it Canada’s last total solar eclipse for the next 20 years. And a number of Niagara wineries want you to pair a glass of plonk with primo viewing on the eclipse path of totality.
To help you celebrate, here’s a list of Ontario wineries hosting solar eclipse watch parties that still have space available as of publication date (events are selling out fast, so make sure to contact each one for registration requirements):
Eclipse 2024 at Southbrook Vineyards
Join Southbrook on April 8 from 1:00-5:00 pm (eclipse totality is expected to take place at 3:18 pm). Special performance by Pink Floyd Niagara. Cost: $55 per person ($45 for SIP Club Members). The event includes 1 glass of wine (additional glasses will go for $10/glass), 1 pair of eclipse glasses, as well as info stations on the eclipse, biodynamics, and organics. Food trucks will be onsite. Location: 581 Niagara Stone Rd, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, L0S 1J0.
Solar eclipse Party at Sandbanks Winery
Prince Edward County is in the perfect path of totality to watch the eclipse. Grab a spot at the Sandbanks Winery vineyard on April 8 from 11:00 am-5:00 pm to watch the once-in-a-lifetime event. A limited number of tickets are available for purchase; the event will include a pair of solar glasses and solar-themed snacks. Location: Sandbanks Estate Winery, 17598 Loyalist Parkway, Wellington, ON, K0K 3L0.
Sips and the eclipse at Viewpointe Estate Winery Restaurant
On April 8 from 11:00 am-5:00 pm, join Viewpointe Estate for a complimentary wine tasting while enjoying the solar eclipse. Viewing glasses are available while supplies last. Location: 151 County Road 50 East, Harrow, ON, N0R 1G0.
Solar eclipse in the Vineyard—Reif Estate Winery
Sip on the Reif Estate’s “The Stars” Riesling while enjoying lunch in their garden. They will have viewing glasses available and live music featuring The Feverish Lemons. Date: April 08, 1:00-5:00 pm. Location: 15608 Niagara Parkway, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON, L0S 1J0. Tickets are $60.00 per person and can be purchased here.
Eclipse viewing at Megalomaniac Wines
Lincoln is located on the path of totality, and Megalomaniac will be open for guests to watch from their outdoor patio and vineyard on April 8 from 1:30-6:00 pm. Eclipse viewing is outdoors (rain or shine) and standing room only, with seating for wine by the glass, “light to dark” tasting flights, charcuterie in the wine bar, and dining throughout the afternoon. Cost: $10/person cover charge (wine and food purchases will be extra); proceeds will go to the Bethlehem Housing & Support Services. Capacity is limited and online reservations are required. Please note: Guests must supply their own protective eyewear. Location: 3930 Cherry Ave., Vineland, ON, L0R 2C0.
In Toronto, the eclipse will begin at around 2:05 p.m., reach maximum coverage at about 3:18-3:20 p.m., and end at around 4:41 p.m.