Total solar eclipse visible from Montreal for the first time in 100 years

This will be the first total solar eclipse visible from Montreal in nearly a century and it all starts at 1 p.m. on Monday, April 8 at the Montreal Science Centre.

iStock photo by Pitris.

On the afternoon of April 8, 2024, a rare total solar eclipse will take place and will be visible from southern parts of Quebec. A total solar eclipse is an astronomical event that happens when the moon travels in front of the sun and hides it completely for a short period of time. 

The last total solar eclipse visible in Montreal goes back to 1932 and no other such event is expected for another 180 years! The big moment happens at 3:27 p.m. when the sun will become completely hidden by the moon. The Science Centre will be an official viewing location.

While marvelling at this spectacular astronomical event, visitors can also enter a contest for a chance to win a family package to the Cirque du Soleil's show Kurios – Cabinet of Curiosities by scanning one of the QR codes posted on site.

The Science Centre and the event's title sponsor, Cirque du Soleil, have teamed up to bring giant eclipse glasses to Montreal for the summer. Those in attendance can also get a free pair of eclipse glasses at one of the site's three distribution points (in front of the Science Centre and at the Jacques Cartier and Alexandra quay entrances).