Few events bring out the kids in all of us quite like a total solar eclipse. Well, get ready, Texas and the world, because the super science show is coming to North Texas on April 8, and Bastrop will be front and center for this exciting display.
Make the celestial event an even more memorable one by spending some quality time in Bastrop before and after the eclipse. In addition to special eclipse-related events planned in Bastrop, this 2024 People’s Choice pick for TWO Texas Travel Awards – “Destination for Families” and “Destination for Outdoor Adventure” - offers fascinating museum exhibits, a wonderful downtown area, beautiful outdoor destinations, excellent restaurants and much more. So, come for the eclipse, but stay for the fun!
Should you need a refresher on eclipses, allow us to give you the short version. On Monday, April 8, the moon will pass between the sun and Earth, but unlike partial eclipses, the moon will completely block the sun, turning a hopefully sunny day into a darker one, similar to normal conditions at dawn or dusk.
What really has captured many people’s attention – especially in Texas – is that the path of totality – where viewers can see the moon completely block the sun, revealing its outer atmosphere or corona – will pass right through the Lone Star State.
To be extremely specific, the Bastrop area is just barely outside the path of totality, but the viewing experience should be nearly the same as those located directly in the path. Better yet, you can avoid the traffic and delays of those heading to Dallas or Austin and enjoy the experience in our laidback city. The highlight of the eclipse will take place at 1:36 p.m. (CST) and will last for less than 2 minutes, but the entire celestial show will start around 12:20 p.m. and end around 2:25 p.m.
SOLAR CELEBRATIONS
Watching a historic moment occur before your eyes is especially exciting when you do it with others. Bob Bryant Park in Bastrop will host the Bastrop Solar Eclipse Watch Party 2024, a free event open to the public. Held from noon to 2 p.m., party festivities will include park games, food vendors and eclipse-themed music. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. A limited number of special eye protection glasses will be available.
Begin your eclipse weekend with a reawakening as Daffolion Farm in Bastrop hosts the Root & Renew Retreat, presented by Thrive Collective. From 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on April 6, learn how to create more harmony in your life through yoga, meditation, nature immersion and other activities. Welcome the energy of the eclipse and the spring season during this special event. The price is $230, and lunch and dinner are provided.
WHILE YOU’RE HERE …
If jousting, juggling and medieval-themed festivities sound exciting, visit the 15th annual Sherwood Forest Faire – Robin Hood’s Spring Faire, open weekends through April 21. Located a short drive from Bastrop in McDade, the event includes shows, entertainment, artisans, music and more from 10 a.m. to dusk. Dress in your best medieval costume and perhaps you’ll win the costume contest.
The beautiful and historic Bastrop Opera House is the site of the Tony Award-nominated play, Prelude to a Kiss, presented Friday through Sunday from April 5-14. The story of love and the supernatural comes together in this romantic comedy. Tickets are $25.
A favorite event in Bastrop, “Art After Dark” includes artwork from Texas artists, live music and refreshments, along with the opportunity to talk with the exhibit creators. Held from 6 to 8 p.m. on April 6 at the Lost Pines Art Center, the event provides an excellent opportunity to meet the Bastrop arts community and shop for original artwork, gifts and more. Admission is free.
While enjoying your visit, make sure to head to the downtown area, where you’ll find a look at past and present Bastrop. Stop in at the Bastrop County Museum and Visitor Center, where you can learn all about the area’s colorful past and get information about Bastrop’s lesser-known treasured attractions.
Then enjoy a stroll through Downtown Bastrop along the Colorado River and check out the shops, art galleries and more. Should you desire a snack or a full breakfast, lunch or dinner, there are plenty of excellent restaurants, wine shops, bakeries and markets to stop in.
The “great outdoors” is a perfect description of Bastrop State Park. Home to the unique loblolly pine trees – or “Lost Pines” – the park covers nearly 6,000 acres. Camping, golfing, hiking, kayaking, birding and swimming are just a few of the activities you can enjoy here, along with tours, native animal presentations and more.
STAY AWHILE
Since you’ll be spending a few extra days to check out all that Bastrop has to offer, you’ll be glad to know there’s an assortment of lodging options in the area, including budget-friendly inns, RV camps, cabins, yurts, hotels and luxury resorts.
Should Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa be your spot to stop, you can enjoy special festivities on Eclipse Day. From noon to 3 p.m., there will be family activities, crafts, snacks and more. Admission is free for registered guests and $20/10 for non-guest adults and children. Protective glasses will be provided.
There’s plenty to do in and around Bastrop. Whether you’re the outdoor adventure type or looking for something a little more mellow, you’ll find everything you need for a relaxing getaway here in Bastrop – it’s all right here. Start planning your family’s escape and get ready to reach for the moon!
