We’re as excited as the rest of the world about the upcoming eclipse—especially since the path of totality happens to be in Oregon, where we’re headquartered. The spectacle itself will only last a matter of minutes, but heading home to sleep immediately after seems kinda like bailing a wedding right after the vows—and we’re definitely not the type to skip a reception. So we’re taking the opportunity to connect with loved ones, noshing on some B3 Kitchen favorites, and moving our bodies.
Whether you’re planning to watch the big show in real life or virtually, here’s our guide on how to celebrate the eclipse the B3 way.
KNOW THE BASICS
What, exactly, is a total solar eclipse? A total solar eclipse happens when the moon and the sun line up in such a way that the moon blocks the sun entirely. When you view it from the path of totality, broad daylight suddenly looks like twilight, and the only part of the sun that is visible is the outer atmosphere, called the corona. This is one of the most spectacular aspects of the total eclipse because it looks like curls of fire shooting out into the sky.
When will it go down: This will all go down on Monday, August 21st. How long the event will depend on where exactly you are, but no matter what your location, the show will be short: between 2 and 3 minutes.
Where is it? Parts of Oregon, Missouri, Tennessee, and South Carolina will see full solar eclipses, but even if you’re not in the path of totality you may still be able to get a partial view. Enter your zip code to find out what percentage of the solar eclipse you’ll be able to witness, and what time the eclipse will peak where you live.
Why bother? This is the first total solar eclipse in the U.S. since 1991, and is also the first solar eclipse to move across the entire mainland of America since 1918, which is why this event is being touted as once in a lifetime.
INVITE YOUR PEOPLE
As we said above, the eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime event—something you’re going to remember for the rest of your life. Make it a happy memory by choosing your crew. Whether that means seeing the eclipse with your family, your closest friends, one super-special person, or blissfully solo, do it your way—you won’t regret it.
PREP A SNACKABLE SPREAD
Can you imagine how long it would take to forgive yourself if you missed the eclipse because you were trying to cook some complicated recipe in the kitchen? We’re going with simple, make-ahead snacks for this one—think anything you can snack on while hanging on a picnic blanket. Here’s what we’re making:
- Caramelized Onion + Carrot Hummus
- Savory Nut + Seed Clusters
- Sweet & Savory Pistachio-Stuffed Dates
- Curried Cashews
- Nutty Caramel Corn
WEAR SHADES—BUT NOT JUST ANY SHADES
You need to wear eye protection any time you look at the sun during any phase of the eclipse—otherwise your could damage your eyes and even cause blindness. Look for eyewear that’s labeled “ISO” to ensure that they are safe to use. Many local libraries across the country are distributing free protective eyewear specifically for viewing the eclipse, and protective glasses are readily available online.
MOVE!
Events like this can mean a whole bunch of sitting and waiting. To keep things from getting too sedentary, we’re planning to have B3 Online at the ready. This isn’t the time to commit to a full 60-minute burner, but a quick 10-minuter will do wonders to get your blood pumping and keep your energy up.
CAN’T WATCH IT LIVE? WATCH VIRTUALLY.
If you’re not able to hang out under the 70-mile-wide eclipse path later this month, consider watching at one of the many science museums across the country that will be hosting live streams. If you’re with your people and mindful of the enormity of the event, it doesn’t matter if you see the “real” thing or not—it’s going to be special either way.
What are your plans for the total solar eclipse? Tell us where you’re watching in the comments below!
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