We are less than 48 hours away from Monday’s total solar eclipse and Hamilton is expecting a massive surge in visitors.
More than 100,000 people could flock to the city for the once-in-a-lifetime cosmic event. For local eateries that could mean a big boost in business.
At Hutch’s Restaurant by Bayfront Park, preparations are in full swing for Monday’s solar spectacle.
The local favourite is getting ready to serve up its nostalgic menu of burgers, fried fish, and ice cream sundaes to eclipse watchers.
Hutch’s Assistant Manager, Andy Ramkissoon says, “When we know we’re going to get busy we pre-prep a lot of the food ready to go but still chilled until it needs to get cooked.”
READ MORE: Here’s what happens if you look at a solar eclipse without protection
From around 2:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Monday, Hamilton will be in the path of totality for the eclipse. That’s when the sun appears to be entirely covered by the moon for a short period.
The next time a total eclipse will be seen in Hamilton is in 120 years, making Monday’s celestial event a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The city’s tourism and culture division has designated six viewing spots for the eclipse for out-of-town visitors but is encouraging locals to experience it from home.
The viewing locations are Tim Hortons Field, which will host a free but ticketed event at Bayfront Park, Pier 4 Park, Confederation Beach Park, and various Hamilton Conservation Areas such as Christie Lake, Fifty Point, as well as T.B. McQuesten Community Park.
READ MORE: Niagara Falls prepares for Monday’s solar eclipse