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The Magic of Santa at Fota House

9 November 2023 By Tom Collins [email protected]

The Irish Heritage Trust properties of Fota House and Gardens in Cork, Johnstown Castle Estate Museum and Gardens in Wexford and Strokestown Park House in Roscommon will welcome visitors to enjoy the festive season with a variety of Christmas events at each location with Santa also on-site to ensure Christmas wishes are fulfilled.

Photo by Colin Shanahan – DigiCol Photography 2021 – http://www.digicolphotography.com

The Magic of Santa will begin at Fota House on November 25th 2023 and the man in red, Mrs Claus and their merry elves will be meeting with boys and girls all the way up until December 22nd.

Final preparations are underway by the cheery Elves at Fota House and Gardens, these little elves are easily distracted; so they are calling on the help of all who visit to assist them in finishing their jobs, spread a little festive cheer and sprinkle a bit of magic on everything insight in order to impress Santa in their quest to become the elf that will accompany him on his journey around the world on Christmas Eve.

This fully interactive traditional Christmas experience for families lasts one hour and brings visitors through seasonally decorated rooms inside the beautiful and historic Fota House which families will go through with a maximum of 3 other families. Each room has characters and storylines to create a fantastical experience which culminates with an individual family visit to Santa after which he will invite children to visit his North Pole library where each child will receive a gift of two age-appropriate books.

Tickets are available from €15 per adult and €25 per child at www.fotahouse.com

There is also a host of festive fun on-site with a vintage merry-go-round and the Alpine Skate Trail which is opening on November 3rd all the way until the end of January 2024. Cork’s Alpine Skate Trail will be set among the trees in Fota House, providing a stunning backdrop which offers an authentic rustic feeling and a festive mood for ice skating.

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Sunday, January 03, 2021

Santa visit and christmas experience at fota house cork.

Fota House and Gardens is a place we love to visit often. It makes for a fabulous day out, with entry to the gardens alone being free (you just pay €3 when exiting the car park). We're very lucky to have this beautiful place on our doorstep and at Christmas time, Fota House is especially beautiful.

Visiting Santa at Fota House this Christmas was a truly unique Christmas experience. Fota House was still stunningly decorated for Christmas, but all adults and staff were wearing masks (we were only allowed to remove for the initial family photo as we entered Fota House) and the visit to Santa was shared with another bubble and socially distanced.

It was clear to us that the staff at Fota House had really put an effort in to make sure that this Christmas experience was just as magical as previous years, but more safety cautious too - as is needed for the times we're living through.

All the rooms in Fota House are so beautiful and charming and there was great magic and wonder for the kids as we went through them. Along the way we met Mrs. Claus in the kitchen, Santa's elves and Santa himself.

The Christmas experience at Fota really gave us a high in the build up to Christmas and made a hard time of year a lot more wonderful for our family.

We love Fota House and would highly recommend their Christmas experience and Santa visit for anyone looking for somewhere to go in December 2021.

You can find out more about Fota House and see the other wonderful events they host on the Fota House website .

You can watch the video below to see more of our Christmas experience and visit to see Santa at Fota House.

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Cork – Visit The Magic of Santa at Fota House

Christmas Events , Christmas Family Breaks , Visit Santa

The Magic of Santa at Fota House

This Christmas, Santa & Mrs. Claus have returned to for the Magic of Santa at Fota House again this year as they make their final preparations for Christmas Eve. They will be joined by the Elves, who as always are behind with their jobs and might need your help, festive cheer and a little bit of magic to help them finish everything on time and impress Santa in their quest to become the elf that will accompany him on his journey around the world on Christmas Eve.

This is a fully interactive traditional Christmas experience for families which brings you through seasonally decorated rooms inside the beautiful historic Fota House. Each room will have characters and storylines and the experience ends with an individual family visit to Santa after which he will invite children to visit his North Pole library where each child will receive a gift of two age appropriate books.

The Magic of Santa experience lasts one hour.

Bakestone Cafe will be serving their usual delicious seasonal treats.

Christmas at Fota Island Resort Each year, the magic of Christmas falls upon Fota Island Resort and they welcome families & friends to make unforgettable festive memories. They have partnered with Fota House for The Magic of Santa in December and residential guests at Fota Island Resort will be able to book a visit to Santa at Fota House.

For booking information visit the website  Fota Island Resort

Fota House, Arborteum & Gardens Christmas Event Information

Venue:- Fota House, Cork

Classification :-  Kids Christmas Event  /  All Ages

Dates/Times: ‘The Magic of Santa at Fota House’ runs:

25th Nov – 22nd Dec.

Family Fun Tip:- Please arrive 15 minutes before chosen time slot

Booking Online:- This is a booking only event, You can book online here through our booking link directly to the  The Magic of Santa at Fota House

Fota House, Arboretum & Gardens is cared for by the Irish Heritage Trust, a not for profit charity.  Your visit to the ‘The Magic of Santa’ at Fota House & Gardens help keep this special place open for everyone. For details on all their events visit the Fota House Whats On Page

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A Magical Christmas in Cork

Christmas at fota island resort .

Each year, the magic of Christmas falls upon Fota Island Resort and we welcome families & friends to make unforgettable festive memories. We have partnered with our neighbours in Fota House who will have Santa on-site in December and residential guests at Fota Island Resort will be able to book a visit to Santa at Fota House.

Please note that the Fota Island Santa Package will be for residents of the hotel and lodges only and will be subject to availability.

For those visiting Fota Island Resort this festive season, the magic and joy of Christmas will be found. We endeavour to create a memorable experience for our Resort Guests. During your stay, embrace the magic as fairy lights twinkle a warm glow and festive decorations adorn the hotel.  Our experienced culinary team are on hand to create decadent festive menus which are sure to tantalise your tastebuds and surround you with the scents of Christmas. Snuggle into your surroundings in the heart of your private island and indulge in 5 star luxury this Christmas.

CHRISTMAS ESCAPES

CHRISTMAS GIFT VOUCHERS

Opening Hours:

The hotel will close after breakfast on the 23rd of December and reopen for lunch on 27th at 13.00pm. Lunch in the Amber Bar & Lounge will be reserved for residents only on the the 27th of December. 

The Spa will close on the 23rd of December at 8.00pm and reopen on the 27th at 8.00am. The Spa will open from 8.00am - 8.00pm daily from the 27th until the 7th of January and will return to normal opening hours on the 8th of January. 

Live Entertainment:

There will be live music in the Amber Bar each weekend throughout the festive season starting from December 1st. 

• Thursday 9.00pm – 11.00pm | Red Hot Jazz Band
• Friday 8.00pm – 11.00pm | Emiliano - Our Resident Pianist
• Saturday 9.00pm – 11.00pm | Red Hot Jazz Band
• Sunday 1.00pm – 4.00pm | Emiliano - Our Resident Pianist

Carol Singers will be in the hotel lobby on December, 8th, 9th,15th, 16th  & 22nd. Friday's from 6.00pm - 8.00pm and Saturdays 5.00pm - 7.00pm. 

Chirstmas & New Years Period

• Tuesday 27th - Emiliano - Our Resident Pianist 8.00pm – 11.00pm
• Wednesday 28th - Violin Duo 9.00pm – 11.00pm
• Thursday 29th - Emiliano - Our Resident Pianist 8.00pm – 11.00pm
• Friday 30th - Red Hot Jazz 9.00pm – 11.00pm
• Saturday 31st- New Year’s Eve - TBC 10.00pm – 12.30am
• Sunday 1st - Red Hot Jazz - 9.00pm – 11.00pm

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Fota House, Arboretum and Gardens

Top ways to experience Fota House, Arboretum and Gardens and nearby attractions

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

FOTA HOUSE, ARBORETUM AND GARDENS: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

• (0.85 km) Fota Island Resort
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Are you looking for the best place to visit Santa in Cork? Look no further, we have your covered! In this blog post, we will be reviewing some of the most popular places to see Santa in Cork. So, whether you are looking for a traditional experience or something a little more unique, we have you covered! Keep reading to learn more.  

Where can I visit Santa in Cork?

How we rated our list of top places to visit santa.

We evaluated places to visit santa based on the following;

• Customer satisfaction:  Based on their Google reviews and overall rating.
• Website Presence:  How professional they present themselves online and explain their services and process.
• Social Media:  How popular they are on social media such as followers, likes, shares and reviews.
• Additional Services:  Any additional services they may offer to customers.

Here are the best place to visit santa in Cork

1. rumley’s open farm.

Customer review;

Very good loads of animals to see and the Santa was brilliant xxx Online Review

We have discovered that Rumley’s Open Farm has a consumer rating of 4.9. The company also has 26 reviews total reviews. Located in Cork, Rumley’s Open Farm is a great place to visit Santa during the Christmas season. The farm offers a variety of activities for the whole family, including a chance to see Santa in his workshop and take a photo with him. There is also a nativity scene, a petting zoo, and a playground. In addition, the farm has a restaurant and café, making it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring. Whether you’re looking for something to do with the kids or just want to enjoy some time outdoors, Rumley’s Open Farm is the perfect place to visit during the holidays.

2. Leahy’s Open Farm

We had an amazing visit to Santa in his Barn. Online Review

We have discovered that Leahy’s Open Farm has a consumer rating of 4.8. The company also has 1,847 reviews total reviews. Leahy’s Open Farm is a great place to visit Santa in Cork. The farm is open all year round and has a wide variety of activities for children to enjoy. Santa Claus is always on hand to meet and greet the children, and there are plenty of photo opportunities available. Leahy’s Open Farm is a great place to take the family for a day out, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area. Santa Claus is just one of the many reasons why Leahy’s Open Farm is such a popular destination. So if you’re looking for a great day out, be sure to check out Leahy’s Open Farm. You won’t be disappointed!

3. Blarney Castle & Gardens

Fantastic place to visit. Online Review

We have discovered that Blarney Castle & Gardens has a consumer rating of 4.7. The company also has 8,798 reviews total reviews. Santa Claus is coming to Blarney Castle! Every year, Santa takes up residence in his grotto at Blarney Castle & Gardens, where he delights children of all ages with his festive cheer. This year, Santa will be joined by a special guest: Mrs. Claus! Visitors can explore the castle grounds, take part in holiday-themed activities, and receive a professional photo with Santa himself. In addition, every child who visits Santa will receive a free gift. Whether you’re looking for a unique Christmas present or simply want to get into the holiday spirit, a visit to Blarney Castle & Gardens is sure to put a smile on your face.

4. Fota House

Went to see Santa in Fota house, very well done, Online Review

We have discovered that Fota House has a consumer rating of 4.7. The company also has 1,048 reviews total reviews. Fota House is one of the most popular places to visit Santa in Cork. Every year, families flock to this historic mansion to see Santa and take part in festive activities. The grounds of Fota House are beautifully decorated for Christmas, and there are often live music and entertainment. Santa usually arrives by sleigh, and he takes the time to speak to each child individually. Families can also enjoy a traditional Christmas dinner at Fota House, making it the perfect place to celebrate the holidays.

5. The Cork North Pole Outpost Experience

We have discovered that The Cork North Pole Outpost Experience has a consumer rating of 4.5. The company also has 121 reviews total reviews. The Cork North Pole Outpost Experience is one of the best places to visit Santa in Cork. The experience includes a visit to Santa’s workshop, where you can see how his elves make the toys, and a stop at Mrs. Claus’ bakery, where you can decorate your own Gingerbread house. You’ll also get to take a ride on Santa’s sleigh and visit his magical ice palace. Best of all, you can meet Santa himself and tell him what you’d like for Christmas. The Cork North Pole Outpost Experience is the perfect place for families to create lasting Christmas memories.

Where can I see Santa in Cork2022?

Santa is scheduled to appear at a few different locations in Ireland throughout 2022. For a full list of dates and locations, see above. We hope you enjoy your Christmas holiday!

Where is the best place to see Santa Ireland?

There is no definitive answer to this question since different people may have different preferences. However, some possibilities include Christmas markets, festive parades, and other holiday events. Additionally, many shopping malls and department stores offer photo opportunities with Santa Claus during the holiday season.

What is there to do in Cork at Christmas ?

There are a lot of festive events happening in Cork over Christmas – here are just a few!

– The Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony happens on December 1st in Fitzgerald Park. There’ll be music, readings, and of course, the lighting of the tree! – On December 8th, head to Merchant’s Quay for Cork’s Christmas market. You’ll find stalls selling festive food and drinks, arts and crafts, and gifts. – The annual pantomime is always a popular event during Christmastime. This year it’s Beauty and the Beast, and it runs from December 13th – January 6th at the Everyman Palace Theatre. – If you’re looking for something more family

If you’re looking for a festive and fun outing with the family, be sure to check out Santa in Cork this year! There’s something for everyone, so whether you’re young or old, there’s plenty of excitement to be had. We hope you enjoy your visit!

• Best In Cork
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If you wish to gift Fota Wildlife Park a donation, please check out donations page or find out more about our Conservation work here .

Santa at Fota

We do not have a Santa experience here in Fota Wildlife Park, but some of our neighbours here on Fota Island and the Great Island, Cobh, do, both Fota House and   Cork North Pole Experience in nearby Cuskinny Court. Please contact them directly for their Santa arrangements for 2023.

The Alpine Skate Trail, at iceskating.ie Cork is located close to the Wildlife Park on Fota Island. Many visitors in winter make a day’s adventure to Fota Island to enjoy both the Wildlife Park and an evening skating at Alpine Skate Trail. While we a neighbours, the Skate Trail is run by Cool Running Events and is separate to Fota Wildlife Park. Please contact directly for ice skating queries.

(Please note that some of the above links lead to outside websites. While Fota Wildlife Park, Fota House & Gardens, Fota Island Resort, Fota Adventure and Scouting Ireland Fota (and seasonally the Alpine Skate Trail), are all located on Fota Island, they are all separate entities.)

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Santa Experience from Hell - Fota House, Arboretum and Gardens

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Santa Experience from Hell

My family and I visited the Santa Experience at Fota House this year. My partner, 10 year old son, 2 year old son, 5 month old daughter and myself. The day was ruined before be even got to the door as another family who had a supposed autistic daughter (don't know this for sure) assaulted my 2 small kids and myself on the walk from the carpark. I was left with spit all over my jacket my daughter and son were slapped and the father of the daughter was very aggressive towards us and didn't even offer an apology. The whole walk from the carpark to the house there was not one security/steward or even Christmas elf to monitor people coming and going. My children were distraught from what happened and couldn't enjoy the experience. My daughter had to be brought away and my 2 year old son was not himself at all (he waited all year to see him, one of few small kids who absolutely loves Santa). The staff i met were very nice especially the woman who tried her best to cheer my 2 year old up. It took the manager 3 days to contact me as they were "on a day off" which was ridiculous in my opinion. Seemed more interested in trying to convince me that they were not liable for anything than actually trying the rectify the situation. It is now 2 weeks later my son hasn't slept a full night since, still speaks about the "girl spit on me" whenever Santa is mentioned and still no sign of my refund. Will never ever visit this place ever again, start to finish it was terrible and still not resolved.

Came here with my husband and 11month for his first trip to see Santa. The overall experience leading up to seeing Santa was very good and it was lovely to walk around the old house. When we got there it was pouring rain and we went to take shelter under the enter ace of the house as there was nobody there. We were quickly told we’re weren’t allowed to stand there. When we saw Santa there was no option to have a proper photo taken. We were asked for our phones (which during Covid is unsanitary) and every single picture we have is blurry. It’s really disappointing and not really what your paying to go to Santa for. When we got out of the room we were carrying three coats two bags and an 11month old we asked could we put his coat on before goi g outside (as we were shoed out the door from Santa and it again was still pouring rain outside) but we were told no we had to go straight out. There was nobody in the hall. Overall probably wouldn’t recommend it to be honest which again is such a shame.

I visited fota House and Gardens today with my two Sisters and I would just like to say a big thank you to all the staff at Fota House&Gardens in particular Finbarr who advised use of a shortCut into the Gardens as my sister couldn't walk too far and was feeling the heat he was so helpful and we really appreciated his help and can't wait to return. From Mary, Catherine and Liz

Don't bother thinking you're going to see a beautiful formal rose garden.They grubbed it all up last year and replaced it with a dreary wildflower garden that looks semi derelict and neglected.Why? Apparently rose gardens aren't "sustainable" enough.Not even one in the whole Cork City area?

Interesting history of Barry family home. There is a remaining living servant who has given some details of life in this Downton Abbey style house.

Thank you for the review Fiachra.

We visited fota house on monday for the last tour of the day . Our guide was Mike who was fantastic very knowledgeable and brought the house alive with the stories. As a small family group we all enjoyed very much. This is my 2nd visit and I'll be back again. Wonderful house and we got a very warm friendly welcome from staff on arrival. One of my favourite houses in this country . Ps if you want to no about the servants and kitchens this is the house for you . 5 stars 🥰😍

Santa Experiences Along The Ring of Cork

Ring of Cork

The festive season is upon us and it’s time to start planning some Christmas events as a family. In this blog post, we are excited to share with you magical Santa experiences along the Ring of Cork for you to enjoy together. Watch the wonder in your little one’s eyes as they take in the magical experiences of the festive season and embrace the joy in the air. It’s time to start thinking about magical Santa experiences to help you create memories to last a lifetime.

AN ENCHANTED CHRISTMAS AT FOTA HOUSE

Immerse yourself in a unique Christmas experiences in a 200-year-old property at Fota House. Enter the house and be met by a warm open fire before being transported through a magical experience. You will make your way through the unique house to find all the ingredients for the famous Fota plum pudding and there will be a few special characters along the way to help you out. Take in the charming decorations throughout the journey before meeting the main man himself Santa Claus. A very traditional style of experience where every child will get to chat to Santa Claus himself and of course get a special gift to remember the day.

This Enchanted Christmas event runs Sunday 8th, Saturday 14th, Sunday 15th, Saturday 21st and Sunday 22nd December from 11am to 6pm. There will be lots of photo opportunities so be sure to bring your camera to get snap happy. For more details, you can check out their website or book online here .

WONDER AT FOTA ISLAND RESORT

If you are looking for a magical experience for all ages, Wonder at Fota Island Resort i s exactly what you are looking for. This year Wonder is a new concept for 2019 and will bring you on a fun adventure with the elves. Set amongst acres of beautiful woodland, Wonder transports families to another place and time, see behind the scenes of Santa’s magical workshop and feel the Wonder as the elves explain how they make so many toys for all the amazing girls and boys.

You will be greeted by lots of new characters who will guide you throughout your experience at Wonder. Meet Santa Claus himself at his grotto in the magical world in Wonder and soak up the full Wonder experience as you make your way through the magical forest and festive journey. You will be met with enchantment and magic as you wander through the fairy-tale experience. Guaranteed to create memories to last a lifetime.

Wonder will begin on the 23rd of November and run until the 23rd of December. The full experiences will last one to one and a half hours in total. You can also enjoy a festive market before or after your booking to soak up the festive atmosphere. For more details, you can check out their website or book online here .

SANTA’S VILLAGE AT LEAHY’S OPEN FARM

Enjoy a magical experience as you visit Santa’s Village at Leahy’s Open Farm. When you arrive, you will start your experience at Santa’s workshop where if you keep your eyes peeled, you will meet Mrs. Claus herself. If you are lucky she might share her baking secrets for her famous Christmas cookies with you. Along your journey, you will meet all the fairies of the magical land and even learn a few new tricks in the Elf school. You will then get to meet the main man himself Santa Claus for a chat and to receive a special gift.

Santa village will open on Saturday the 30th of November and the tours will start between 4:30pm – 6:50 pm on Thursdays and Fridays and from 10am – 6:50pm on Saturday’s on Sundays. For more details, you can check out their website or book online here .

THE CORK NORTH POLE OUTPOST EXPERIENCE

If you are looking for a very unique experience, The Cork North Pole Outpost Experience is what you are looking for. Full of fun and imagination. This experience is imaginative and interactive and it brings to life the real values of a good old fashioned Cork Christmas. Every year is different and unique for all that visit it. You enter a secret location in the woods which turns into a magical world of Elves. Meet lots of exciting characters throughout your experience and you will even begin your Elf in Training programme along the way.  You will pay a visit to lots of rooms during your journey throughout the house from The North Pole Post Office, Toy Building School, The Pine Elves Christmas Tree Elforation Workshop, Mrs. Claus Cookie Kitchen and of course you will get to visit Santa Claus himself.

The whole experience lasts for 75 – 90 minutes and is perfect for all ages. For more details, you can check out their website or book online here .

SANTA AT PERKS IN YOUGHAL

Perks Entertainment Centre in Youghal is also having a visit from Santa Claus himself this festive season. Santa arrives on Saturday November 16th to give you a magical experience with your family. You can visit him every Saturday and Sunday from 2pm – 6pm up until December 22nd. This experience is free and all children will receive a free parcel from Santa himself. Perks Entertainment Centre is full of things to do so why not book bowling, magazone lazer or the play centre and make a day out for all the family.

MAGICAL MIDLETON

The festive spirit will be turned on in Midleton on Friday the 22nd of November with the switching on of the Christmas lights. There will also be a guest appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with lots of carol singing. Santa will be arriving on his Christmas bus at 3pm

and bringing lots of festive fun and cheer with him. It will be a festive night of family fun, music, dance and much more. A lovely festive Christmas evening for all the family.

EVENING EXTRAVAGANZA IN YOUGHAL

The town of Youghal is hosting a festive night on Saturday the 23rd of November to switch on the lights with Santa at 5pm. From 3pm you have the opportunity to visit Santa in his Grotto and take in the festive atmosphere around the seaside town. Enjoy the street performers and Christmas carols. The perfect way to start the festive season.

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Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

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Fota House re-opens for the season on Friday 15th March 2024 with daily tours at 12pm & 2pm. Our Long Gallery Visitor Centre & Craft Shop is open daily and our takeaway tea & coffee unit is open Wednesday – Sunday, 10:30am to 5pm. Due to roof restoration works, our house café is temporarily closed.

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