'Total Eclipse in the 716': What to expect at Outer Harbor & Canalside on April 8

Buffalo Waterfront announces guidance for visitors 

Buffalo Waterfront released guidance for those planning to visit the Outer Harbor or Canalside for the “Total Eclipse in the 716” special events on April 8.

“The waterfront lies at one of the most central points in the path of totality and, weather willing, will offer picturesque views of the solar eclipse,” said Lauren Ford, general manager, Buffalo Waterfront. “We look forward to celebrating with the community and our out-of-town guests at the first event of the new outdoor venue at Terminal B.”

“Total Eclipse in the 716” at the Outer Harbor’s Terminal B is a free event that will feature live music, food trucks, vendors, and a Kids Zone with a DIY pinhole projector station, a chalk-art zone and more. Most activities begin at 1 p.m. Free outdoor fitness classes presented by Independent Health will be held on the water’s edge at Terminal B and include SowFit Buffalo at 1 p.m., H.E.A.L. BFLO Yoga at 2 p.m. and Shannon Connors Fitness at 4 p.m. All attendees will receive a free pair of eclipse glasses, courtesy of Upstate Honda Dealers.

The Outer Harbor event requires a reservation for each person in attendance. Tickets are free and can be reserved online in advance. Premium parking is available at the venue for $5 in the lot adjacent to Terminal B. Event attendees are encouraged to reserve parking in advance online. Parking outside of the premium lot is not guaranteed and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis along Fuhrmann Boulevard.

Following the eclipse, runners can participate in the “Total Eclipse of the Sun Run,” with a 5k planned for 6 p.m. and a “fun run” at 5 p.m., presented by Independent Health. The run requires advance registration.

Canalside will be open to the public and will feature a silent disco at the beer garden (tickets available in advance or in person). The Buffalo Heritage Carousel and Longshed will be open to visitors, and the Explore & More Children’s Museum will be open on Monday from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Clinton’s Dish will offer food and beverage specials and food trucks will be on site.

Buffalo Waterfront advises those coming to the Outer Harbor or Canalside of the following:

Outer Harbor

√ If driving to the Outer Harbor, plan to arrive early and leave later to avoid traffic delays

√ Gates, at 901 Fuhrmann Blvd., will open at 10 a.m. for those who have purchased a parking pass

√ The Outer Harbor drive exit off Route 5 will be closed throughout the event; vehicles will be redirected to the Ohio Street or Tift Street exits to enter and exit the Outer Harbor

√ Bikers and pedestrians can enter the event space via 825 Fuhrmann Blvd.

√ It is advised ticketholders download or print their tickets and parking passes in advance, in case there are issues with cell service

√ It is recommended those driving ensure they have a full gas tank, pack any needed prescriptions, and bring extra food and water in case of traffic delays

√ Food trucks and vendors will be on site by 1 p.m.

√ Most activities run from 1-5 p.m.; the “Total Eclipse of the Sun Run” (a fun run and 5K) will begin at 5 p.m.

√ Ticketholders are permitted to bring in outside food; no outside alcoholic beverages

√ Guests may bring in chairs; no tent structures, grills or other pop-up structures will be permitted

√ Only credit cards will be accepted for beer and wine purchases (some food trucks and vendors may accept cash)

√ Reddy Bikeshare will be establishing a free parking area along Fuhrmann Boulevard and around the security checkpoint at Lakeside Bike Park – this will allow users to lock their Reddy Bike to a public rack or sign post without paying the $2 out-of-station fee; the one-day free zone will be labeled and visible in the map of Reddy Bikeshare's smart phone app

Canalside

√ Canalside will remain open to the public from dawn to dusk

√ Food and beverages will be available for purchase from 11 a.m. through 5 p.m.

√ The Silent Disco will run from 1-4 p.m.

√ Visitors may bring in outside food; no outside alcoholic beverages

√ Guests may bring chairs; no tent structures, grills or other pop-up structures will be permitted

√ Only credit cards will be accepted for beer and wine purchases, and purchases at Clinton’s Dish (some food trucks and vendors may accept cash)

√ If traveling to Canalside, use of public transportation is strongly recommended

√ No tickets are required to visit Canalside

For more information, visit www.buffalowaterfront.com.