Total Eclipse Occurring Today

After much anticipation, today is finally the day when the total solar eclipse will occur.

There are several different community events here in Stephens and surrounding counties going on today to celebrate the eclipse.

Here in Toccoa, there will be a street party hosted by Mainstreet Toccoa in the parking lot across from the Ritz Theatre from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. with live music, food and giveaways.

Other viewing sites in Stephens County include Ping’s Grill, the Georgia Baptist Conference Center, Camp Toccoa at Currahee, Toccoa Falls, the library viewing party and tailgating opportunities at Stephens County High School and Stephens County Recreation and Parks. There will also be an After the Eclipse event at Miles Through time from 3-5 p.m. with $1 admission.

In the surrounding areas, Rabun County is hosting a countywide party including an eclipse lecture and viewing party. And at Tallulah Gorge State Park there will a festival with live music, a craft fair and more.

Other important information regarding the eclipse is to remember there will be thousands of visitors in the area and many of them will be pulling off on the side of the highway to view the eclipse, so Sherriff Randy Shirley asks citizens to be mindful of that.

Also do not forget that to protect your eyes, you must wear the proper safety viewing glasses. If you don’t have any, do not attempt to view the eclipse. There are other safe ways to do so that won’t damage your eyes.

And lastly, be aware that the convenience sites at Tower Road, White Pines Road and Wolfpit Road will be closing at noon today.