The last time a total solar eclipse passed over Ohio, Thomas Jefferson was in the White House, Lewis and Clark had finally reached the Pacific Ocean and construction was beginning on the first federal highway. It was 1806, and a total solar eclipse — when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth, completely obscuring the sun — hasn’t occurred in Ohio since then.

Two centuries later, thousands of Ohioans live in the 124-mile-wide path of totality for the April 8 solar eclipse, and are preparing for an influx of traffic from travelers hoping to see the once-in-a-lifetime event.

Here’s what you need to know about the eclipse on April 8:

WHERE WILL THERE BE FULL TOTALITY IN LICKING COUNTY?

While no city in Licking County falls along the path of totality, there are still great opportunities to view a near-total eclipse. Across the county, residents will be able to enjoy above 99% coverage of the sun by the moon. The eclipse will reach its peak around 3:13 p.m. EST.

  • In Hartford, the eclipse will be a “deep partial” at 99.98% coverage. Lock, on the border of Knox and Licking counties, will see about the same. 
  • Appleton and Homer are predicted to see 99.94% coverage, some of the highest in the county. 
  • Johnstown will see 99.91% coverage. 
  • Homer and Utica expect 99.8% coverage. 
  • In Alexandria, coverage will be 99.7% at its peak. 
  • Pataskala, Granville residents will be able to experience 99.6% coverage.
  • Newark and Kirkersville will see 99.4% coverage. 

Nearby, Mount Vernon falls along the path of totality and is expecting to be busy hosting lots of visitors. At Ariel-Foundation Park, families and out-of-towners alike will be able to enjoy a viewing party. In addition to play-based science activities, The Shazzbots, a children’s rock band from Columbus, will be making an appearance. 

ARE THERE ANY COOL ECLIPSE WATCH PARTIES OR EVENTS NEAR ME?

  • The Homer Public Library in Utica is hosting a Lunar Lunch on April 8 at 12pm. Registration required. 

The Licking Park District will be passing out free eclipse classes while supplies last on April 4. Held in Shelter 5 at Infirmary Mound Park, there will also be eclipse-themed activity stations for kids to enjoy. In case of bad weather, the event will be moved to the James Bradley Center. No registration required!

Check Ohio.org for more eclipse-related events in your neighborhood.

WHERE CAN I GET GLASSES?

To properly view the eclipse, you’ll need a special pair of glasses. They’re about 1,000 times darker than your everyday pair of sunglasses, and they’ll protect you from severe eye damage while you look to the sky. A number of places around the county are passing them out for free as supplies last. Be sure to check your local library for available pairs!

  • The event will also offer some eclipse themed activity stations for kids. 

IS THIS ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EVENT ACCESSIBLE FOR LOW-VISION INDIVIDUALS?

The blind and low vision community in Licking County residents will be able to experience the eclipse through sound, thanks to a collaboration between the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD). Parks across the state will host LightSound stations. LightSound is a device that converts light intensity into musical tones, shifting as the moon eclipses the light from the sun. While none are available in Licking County, you can find all the LightSound station locations here on the ODNR website.

The ODNR also officially endorses the Eclipse Soundscapes app on their website as another option for blind or low vision individuals to enjoy this rare celestial event. 

BUT MY KID HAS SCHOOL. HOW CAN THEY SEE THE ECLIPSE? 

Many schools are closing for the day to allow students and staff the once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the near-total eclipse. The Licking Heights Local Schools district has canceled school Monday, April 8, for all students prekindergarten-grade 12 to enjoy this historical event. Heath City Schools, Newark City Schools, Granville Exempted Village Schools and Southwest Licking Schools will also be closed. 

WHAT SHOULD I DO TO PREPARE?

The Ohio Emergency Management Agency is encouraging anyone traveling to see the eclipse to plan ahead by packing supplies like food, water, extra medication, blankets, chargers and a change of clothing in their cars.

The EMA warned of potential cell service disruptions, so keep a paper map in your car in case your GPS does not work and make a communication plan with friends and family you may be traveling with.

Torria Catrone writes for TheReportingProject.org, the nonprofit news organization of Denison University’s Journalism program, which is funded by the Mellon Foundation and donations from readers.