The Macon County Conservation District will be offering two different opportunities to experience the 2024 solar eclipse. There will be a Solar Eclipse Party as well as a van trip to SIU’s Eclipse Day.

On Monday, April 8, there will be a Solar Eclipse Party at the Rock Springs Conservation Area from 12-3:30 pm. Join our naturalists to learn about eclipses, look at the sun through our telescope, and view the solar eclipse with an estimated 97% coverage. Limited quantities of eclipse-viewing glasses will be available for free until supplies run out. Refreshments will be served, and crafts will be available for children. This event is free and no registration is required.

Also on Monday, April 8, there will be a van trip to SIU’s Eclipse Day from 7:30 am-6 pm. Venture to Carbondale’s Southern Illinois University to experience Eclipse Day at Saluki Stadium. Activities include eclipse-viewing, experts on hand to interpret the eclipse, a documentary, and more. Eclipse-viewing glasses will be provided by SIU. $60/person covers admission, transportation, and parking. Register online at MaconCountyConservation.org by April 5.

Rock Springs Conservation Area is located on the southwestern edge of Decatur.  To get to Rock Springs from Decatur, go south on Route 48 and turn west onto Rock Springs Road, or go south on Wyckles Road and turn east onto Rock Springs Road.  Watch for signs. Plenty of parking is available.