The Great Eclipse of 2024 is a little more than a week away. The kids are out of school and family-friendly events are on the agenda. Here's to clear skies and a beautiful day in North Little Rock, Arkansas as we plunge into totality and bask in our 15 minutes of fame on April 8th!
Here are Macaroni KID North Little Rock's top picks for things to do with your family during the days leading up to the eclipse and our Top 5 kid-friendly events to consider for your family! You can find all the upcoming eclipse events, where to get free eclipse glasses, and more practical tips in our Eclipse Guide here!
BEFORE THE BIG DAY...
- Pick up a pair of free eclipse glasses at your local library.
- If you don't have a library card you can sign up for a free Central Library System card (Little Rock, Sherwood, Maumelle, and Jacksonville) in person at any CALS branch. Note: You do not have time to apply online and receive your card before the eclipse. Apply in person.
- North Little Rock residents can get a free NLR library card at either the Argenta or Laman Libraries or the mobile library, Rover. Learn how here. You can also apply in person and pick up your glasses.
- If your family has special dietary or medical needs, shop now. Don't wait until next week.
- Talk to your kids (big and little) about how to safely view the eclipse. See the family eclipse readiness events below.
- Plan where you will view the eclipse and how you will get there.
TOP 5 EVENTS Before the Eclipse
1. Total Eclipse of the Park Weekend | Dickey-Stephens Park | North Little Rock
Take them out to the ball game! Three games to choose from as the Travs take on the Springfield Cardinals. As a bonus, the first 1000 fans receive special edition Travelers-themed eclipse glasses on Saturday (6:05 pm) and Sunday (1:35 pm).
2. Eclipse Readiness Night | Laman Library - Main Branch | North Little Rock
This preparedness event is three separate events happening simultaneously. Families can learn how to safely view the eclipse, attend a themed storytime, and receive free solar eclipse glasses. (5-6:30 pm)
If you're feeling crafty, visit the Crafty Corner and make a Total Solar Eclipse Oil Pastel Drawing. All materials are supplied. This activity is perfect for beginners of all ages and registration is not required. (5-6 pm)
Teens can head up to The Loft, the library's Teen Center, to experience Big Eclipse Energy. From eclipse-themed self-care to tarot spreads, and journaling prompts- harness the energy of this scientific marvel for your inner self! (4:30-6 pm)
3. Blackout on the Boulevard | Lake Willastein | Maumelle
Maumelle is throwing a 4-day carnival and you're invited! Live music and local performers, a kiddie zone, food trucks, hot air balloons, and more! The NCAA Final Four will be on the big screen on Saturday and Monday. There's a church service on Sunday and Elijah Tindall (The Voice) performs. A carnival wouldn't be a carnival without rides and fireworks, and Blackout on the Boulevard has both! See the full schedule for details and merch.
4. Moon Block Party | Argenta Plaza | North Little Rock
North Little Rock is setting up a 3-day Block Party on our front porch- The Argenta Plaza! Saturday, April 6th features a vendor market from 11 am-4 pm and a Silent Disco from 6-9 pm. Sunday has pop-up fitness activities and a concert with Mayday by Midnight from 7-9 pm. The party continues on April 8th with food trucks and vendors, live music from noon to 4 pm, and the main event from 12:34-3:12 pm. Main Street will be closed to vehicular traffic from Broadway to 6th. Arrive early to park near the plaza. Take a stroll and see the murals downtown
5. Solar Eclipse Balloon Festival | Petit Jean Farmer's Market | Morrilton
If you're up for a little drive and outdoor recreation, Petit Jean Mountain offers outstanding views and options to explore the Natural State. This event runs from April 5-8th with the main event taking place on Saturday the 6th with a Vendor Village, Hot Air Balloon Rides (including a tethered option for those wanting to stay a little closer to terra firma), local artists, and food vendors round out the day. Note: Limited camping and lodging options may still be available.
TOP 5 EVENTS on April 8th
1. Total Eclipse of the Park in Jacksonville
Jacksonville Farmers Market, Dupree Park, Paradise Park, Pleasure Park Complex, AGFF. Jacksonville Shooting Sports Complex and Reeds Bridge Battlefield will all host Eclipse Watch Parties. Jacksonville Parks and Rec staff will be stationed throughout the city with information about the eclipse and free Solar Eclipse Glasses.
2. Total Eclipse in the Park at Burns Park, North Little Rock
Bring the family out to the Burns Park Soccer Complex to see the eclipse. There is lots of space to spread out and for kids to run around. Food trucks, security, and traffic assistance will be available. Parking spaces are limited and parking passes are $25 per vehicle. No alcohol allowed.
3. Shadow Over Sherwood at the Sherwood Sports Complex on Bear Paw Road
The softball fields will be open for a peaceful, community-wide viewing experience. Bring chairs, blankets, and snacks. The softball concession stand will be open from 11 am-4 pm. Sherwood Police officers will assist with security in the parking lots and the fields. Parking and space on the fields are first come, first served. Arrive early and keep in mind that after the eclipse, The Trail of Lights path will open to allow visitors to exit onto Maryland Avenue and alleviate congestion on Bear Paw Road.
4. Total Eclipse of the Park at Dickey-Stephens Park "Home of the Arkansas Travelers"
Admission to the stadium is FREE on April 8th. Gates open at 11 am and guests can enjoy concessions and the Eclipse Trivia Challenge to win Travs tickets, gift cards, bobbleheads, and more! You can pre-register personal telescopes online for a small donation to the Travelers Youth Foundation. You and up to 10 guests can then access the reserved telescope area. Keep in mind, you must pre-register to enter with your telescope and all telescope bags will be searched on entry to the park which also has a clear bag policy. Parking near the stadium is not included and must be purchased on the day of. Kids will love the play area and berm seating is perfect for relaxed lounging while awaiting the big moment.
5. LRAFB Herkmarch with Outdoor Recreation
LRAFB families can sign up for the Herkmarch, a 4.5-mile path along base trails starting at the Outdoor Recreation parking lot. Play eclipse trivia and stop at refreshment stations along the way. The end of the trail opens up to the ODR's backyard where participants can view the eclipse with ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses. Register online by April 5, 2024.
