It’s been more than a century since a total solar eclipse crossed the continental United States — the last occurred in 1918 — and after this summer’s event it won’t happen again here until 2045. One of the best places to view the Aug. 21 total solar eclipse is Blount County, Tennessee, where several local venues are already planning special events and gatherings.
Here are the confirmed Blount County plans for eclipse day:
- Historic Cable Mill in Cades Cove, located within The Great Smoky Mountains National Park, will host an informal public viewing event, welcoming visitors to experience the eclipse in a scenic, historic setting.
- Chilhowee Inn in Walland is offering a Three-Day Eclipse escape that includes three nights’ accommodation, an eclipse-day picnic and ISO CE certified glasses for safe viewing.
- Dancing Bear Lodge in Townsend will hold a Total Solar Eclipse Party on the lodge lawn. The gathering will feature a picnic served “food truck style” on the deck, plus chairs, cozy blankets and eclipse glasses so guests can watch the sun go dark comfortably and safely.
- Also in Townsend, River Rat Tubing is organizing a Totally Tuber Solar Eclipse Celebration. The festivities will begin in the early afternoon and continue with live music and family-friendly activities at River Rat Tubing’s center.
- In Maryville, Harmony Family Center plans to host the Great American Eclipse Viewing Party, complete with food and brew trucks and local eclipse experts participating to help visitors understand and enjoy the event.
Whether you prefer a quiet, historic location or a lively community celebration, Blount County’s variety of viewing options offers something for every eclipse-watcher. Attendees should bring proper eye protection and plan for crowds, as total solar eclipses tend to draw visitors from across the region.