With three months to go until the total solar eclipse on Aug. 21, local officials in Corvallis and Benton County are planning ahead to ensure that visitors and local community members alike will be able to attend this once-in-a-lifetime event in a safe and enjoyable setting.
The eclipse is expected to begin locally around 9 a.m. Aug. 21, when the moon begins to move across the face of the sun. Corvallis and Benton County lie along the "path of totality" and will see about two minutes of total darkness at the peak of the eclipse around 10:16 a.m.
Unlike many other areas along the eclipse path in the United States, the Willamette Valley has reliably clear and cloud-free weather in August, which should be a boon to eclipse viewers in the area.
What to Expect?
Estimates suggest that as many as 500,000 people could come to the Willamette Valley for the eclipse. As a result, Corvallis and Benton County are planning for a predicted surge of visitors and traffic in the area. Out-of-town visitors are encouraged to arrive at least a day early to avoid last-minute traffic on local and state highways.
Most area hotels have been booked for months, but various camping events remain available.
Local Events
Visit Corvallis, the local tourism bureau, maintains a comprehensive list of activities and events related to the eclipse. Here are a few highlights:
Total Eclipse Experience at OSU – As part of its 150th anniversary festivities, Oregon State University will be hosting a fun, informative, family-friendly weekend to celebrate the eclipse. Packages that include on-campus lodging and meals are available. The three-day event will include an outdoor concert on Sunday, Aug. 20 on the Memorial Union quad. The entire community will be invited to a free viewing event on the quad on Aug. 21 to watch the eclipse.
Total Eclipse Corvallis – A three-day camping event from Corvallis Parks and Recreation with live entertainment, kids activities and a beer garden provided by Block 15 Brewery and 2 Towns Ciderhouse.
Adair County Park Camping – Benton County is offering affordable tent and RV campsites at Adair County Park and shuttles to Corvallis, located five miles south of Adair Village.
Total Eclipse on Marys Peak – A mountaintop eclipse viewing experience hosted by Cascadia Expeditions and its partners. Space is limited.
Eclipse Info Sessions at the Library – Twice a month leading up to the big day, the Corvallis-Benton County Public Library will host a free informational session on the eclipse, featuring astronomers from the Heart of the Valley Astronomers club. Each attendees will receive a free pair of eclipse viewing glasses. Due to high demand, tickets are required but can be obtained in person from the main library.
Eclipse Camping at the Philomath Frolic and Rodeo – The annual rodeo event will offer 15 acres for tents, trailers and RVs of all sizes.