Outer Harbor to host 'Total Eclipse in the 716' on April 8

Total eclipse viewing party first event at renovated Terminal B outdoor entertainment pavilion

Erie Canal Harbor Development Corp. (ECHDC) and Rich Entertainment Group today announced plans for a total eclipse viewing party at the Outer Harbor on April 8. The “Total Eclipse in the 716” free viewing party will be the first event at the renovated Terminal B, which will hold a grand-opening and ribbon-cutting earlier that day.

A press release stated, :ECHDC and Rich Entertainment Group invite Western New Yorkers and visitors to experience the eclipse at one of the most central points in the path of totality, amid picturesque waterfront views.”

“Total Eclipse in the 716” is a free event that will feature live music, food trucks, vendors, outdoor fitness classes and a Kids Zone with a DIY pinhole projector station, a chalk-art zone, and bounce house. All attendees will receive a free pair of eclipse glasses, courtesy of Upstate Honda Dealers. Activities begin at 1 p.m.

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.

“What an opportunity this will be to share the rare experience of a total solar eclipse with others on our beautiful Outer Harbor,” ECHDC Chairwoman Joan Kesner said. “We are excited to debut the completed Terminal B events pavilion on the same day that Western New York is in the path of totality, and hope that you will join us for a day of entertainment at this new, unique events venue. ECHDC is working steadfastly to undertake and complete projects, like the events pavilion, under Gov. Hochul’s leadership and direction, and provide the public with exceptional events, like this eclipse party and crowd-pleasing concerts.”

A press release noted, “With construction complete on the $13 million outdoor entertainment pavilion on Buffalo’s Outer Harbor, Western New Yorkers and visitors have a new performance space and green space to enjoy on the waterfront. The project renovated the long-abandoned Terminal B warehouse into an events center that utilizes existing parking and reclaimed 7 acres of contaminated property to open additional public access with scenic, new lake views. The project also beautified the habitat with new trees, shrubs and meadow areas, and added diverse plants to support migrating and nesting birds.”

Buffalo Waterfront General Manager Lauren Ford said, “We’re looking forward to celebrating this once-in-a-lifetime event with the community at the newly renovated Terminal B. This special occasion is the perfect way to kick off an exciting season at our region’s newest outdoor venue.”

A wide range of events at Terminal B are planned for the 2024 season. Rich Entertainment Group and Funtime Presents will host the Seneca Casinos Outer Harbor Concert Series at Terminal B this summer, including the already-announced Brothers Osborne “Might As Well Be Us” tour stop on June 14 and Lake Street Dive on Sept. 17. Additional concerts and special events will be announced in the coming months.

Also on April 8, Buffalo Waterfront will host “Total Eclipse in the 716” activities at Canalside, featuring “Silent Disco on the Boardwalk.” The Buffalo Heritage Carousel and Longshed will be open to visitors. Clinton’s Dish will offer food and beverage specials, and food trucks will be on-site. Eclipse viewers at Canalside will also receive free Upstate Honda Dealers eclipse glasses.

The use of public transportation and alternate modes of transportation are encouraged on the day of the eclipse. Parking will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, boat launches will be closed at Buffalo Harbor State Park.

For more information, visit www.buffalowaterfront.com.