MICANOPY, FL (352today.com) – This Saturday, Oct. 14, enjoy a full day – and night – of celestial celebrations at Cuscowilla Nature and Retreat Center in Micanopy, including a midday viewing of the annular solar eclipse, an afternoon of play in the park and a night of stargazing.
The eclipse viewing, which runs from noon to 3 p.m., will be a unique educational experience with the Friends of Cuscowilla and many student and faculty organizations from the University of Florida (UF).
“Here in Alachua County, we’ll see the Oct. 14 annular solar eclipse as a partial eclipse – 65% coverage at its maximum, around 1:20 p.m. – which will dim the sun’s light noticeably,” said Savannah Still, a NASA Partner Eclipse Ambassador and UF student. “Through safe-viewing instruments, we’ll be able to observe the moon eclipsing the sun.”
After the eclipse, guests can spend the afternoon winding down at Cuscowilla. There are opportunities for catch-and-release fishing, hiking, volleyball, basketball and even glow-in-the-dark disc golf. Other amenities include music and a variety of food trucks.
RELATED: Are you ready for the eclipse this weekend?
For those who would rather shop ’til they drop, the town of Micanopy is home to a full street of charming antique shops and local art galleries. Just over six miles south on US-441, the annual McIntosh 1890s Festival will host over 260 arts and crafts booths until 4 p.m.
Guests can reconvene at Cuscowilla at nightfall to watch the stars. The event will last through 10 p.m.
Check the local weather for this event and others here.