Great American Eclipse Countdown Underway

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Eclipse Expo Earth

Alton, Mo. – The Great American Eclipse is coming soon. While we had been counting in months, we are down to days. The eclipse comes on April 8, 2024. Alton, Missouri, is in the path of totality, and visitors have already made reservations for this big event. Campgrounds and AirBnb’s are full. Visitors are planning what to do here and how long their stay will last.

When Is The Eclipse?

The Great American Eclipse is Monday, April 8, 2024. It begins about 12:30 pm and ends around 3:30 pm. This is the peak of daylight. It is called The Great American Eclipse because it goes through so many major U.S. cities, enabling thousands, if not millions, of people to participate in this event.

Stays

For example, one local campground, Camp River Campground, is adding a cabin for the event. Although not completed yet, it is already reserved. Area residents are leasing their lands to incoming visitors. Another customer is leasing sites and offering many fun activities all weekend long. You can check them out here.

Camp River Campground

Happenings

As the minimum stay for most folks is four days, these newcomers are looking to see what the area offers and what attractions we have. From hayrides and concerts to competitions and parades, this area is scheduling a lot! Besides going down the river, here is what towns are planning so far.

Stairs at Whitten River access.
Stairs at Whitten River access.

Alton

The Chamber is planning activities on the square on Saturday, April 6. Ideas are in the planning stage as they recruit vendors. You can see more here.

People of all ages walk around the square at the Walnut Festival on October 7, 2023.
People of all ages walk around the square at the Walnut Festival on October 7, 2023.

West Plains

Just north of Alton, West Plains is planning various weekend activities. From a Friday concert, to Saturday’s run, breakfast, pet photos with an alien, duck races,  the farmer’s market, ending the night with a neon parade. Sunday is another run, dodgeball tournament, and events at the fairgrounds.

Thomasville duck races

Thayer and Mammoth Spring, Ar

South of Alton, Thayer combines forces with Mammoth Spring, Arkansas, to provide a fun weekend. Stay tuned for their listings.

Koshkonong, Thomasville, and Myrtle

These towns have yet to announce what their plans are for the upcoming eclipse.

Churches

This is an opportunity for churches to host one-day vbs programs for kids, youth rallies, or space speakers.

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