The Total Eclipse is a once in a lifetime event. If you’re planning on experiencing this phenomenon in Kingston, make sure to make the most of it with this weekend itinerary..

Perhaps you’ve heard of the Total Solar Eclipse happening on April 8? This celestial event is incredibly rare and only happens once every 366 years. A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun, completely blocking the Sun's light and casting its shadow on a portion of Earth.

What’s so special about the Kingston Eclipse experience is that Kingston is in the path of totality which means that at approximately 3:20pm in the afternoon on April 8, the sun will be fully eclipsed right here in Kingston, Ontario!

Friday Evening: Art After Dark is happening on the evening of April 5! Art After Dark is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Kingston’s vibrant art scene. Drop in to markets, check out live paintings, music, artisans, free samples, and more! Pick up a print by a local artist and take it home as a memory of this special weekend spent in the limestone city. Art After Dark is completely free to attend, and this year there are 24 galleries and shops participating!

The best way to kick off a night of Art After Dark is with a delicious meal. I recommend making a reservation at one of the following: Tango Nuevo, Heist, The Everly, Bar Mayla, Miss Bao or Olivea. All are within walking distance of the Art After Dark activities!

Saturday morning: I would start my Saturday in downtown Kingston browsing through the Kingston Public Market located at Springer Market Square. This is another great way to get acquainted with the wonderful local vendors that make Kingston great. Grab a latte from Kingston Coffee House and have a browse at the eclectic assortment of treats and handmade goods.

After a bit of fresh air at the market, take some time for self care. Make sure to book an appointment ahead of time for a facial, mani, pedi at one of the day spas! My favourites are The Refinery, Cher Mere, The Annex and Glow Skincare Co.

Insiders tip: mention ‘Eclipse’ in the comments when booking a 60-minute facial at Glow Skincare Co. from April 4 to 7 and receive a free Alumier retinol eye gel that’s valued at $110!

Saturday afternoon: To get a really good taste of all the wonderful restaurants Kingston has to offer, I recommend booking a Kingston Food Tour. The tour includes delicious samples from various locally owned restaurants and shares the rich history of each stop. Great story-telling and great food - this is how to make sure you’ve tried as much of Kingston’s food scene as possible in a short window of time. Tickets are only $99.

Saturday night: Live music is the way to go for a night in downtown Kingston. The Toucan is a local staple and known for hosting great live music. They will have Nepean's indie-folk artist, Graven on Saturday night. And note while you’re there, The Toucan will be giving away eclipse glasses with a purchase of $20+ while supplies last!

The Union Kitchen + Cocktails is another great place to sip a bevvy, and they’re running a feature cocktail to celebrate the total solar eclipse, too. "Eclipse Margharita" is a citrusy sweet twist on a classic with elderflower liquer.

Sunday morning: Make sure to get in all of the sights of Kingston and hop on a trolley tour! The one hour tour through downtown Kingston passes notable historical sites, galleries and museums and gives participants the stories and historical context of each. Beautiful way to start the day and learn more about the community.

Sunday afternoon: If you’re traveling with the family, The Grand Theatre will have a production of The Jungle Book showing Sunday Afternoon. This family-friendly show features eye-popping video, shadow-play, and original music.

Monday morning: Monday, April 8 is the big day! The day featuring the celestial event that will not be replicated for several hundreds of years. I suggest starting your day with a really great breakfast to mark the milestone. A local favourite is Pan Chancho. Get the curry eggs, you won’t regret it.

AquaTerra also has a special solar eclipse menu, featuring lots of festive options, like Moon Beef Empanadas and Eclipse Raviolini stuffed with mascarpone and goat cheese. YUM!

Monday afternoon: There are many places to view the once in a lifetime event in this waterfront town. Hop on the Island Cruise for a special three hour cruise and unobstructed view or visit one of the many parks. Since Kingston is in the path of totality there is no bad choice when it comes to picking a spot to take in this once in a lifetime experience! If you’re looking for total solar eclipse swag or glasses, make a stop at the Visitor Information Centre in Confederation Park across from City Hall before you head home.