A solar eclipse is coming our way, and it's a chance to witness a truly awesome astronomical event. But don't worry, you don't need fancy telescopes (although those are cool too!) Chicago kids can explore all sorts of exciting eclipse events, and here are some fun ways for you and your little space explorers to celebrate and observe the eclipse. We've pulled together some weekend events to help get kids excited for Monday's big event, and some fun viewing options for the big day! Find even more events in our Calendar of Events.

Remember: Never look directly at the sun, even during the eclipse!

Eclipse Themed Events on Saturday

Curious Kids Club: Build a Solar Eclipse Viewer
West Town Libary, 1625 W. Chicago Avenue, Chicago
Curious Kids Club is a place to think, learn and have fun, and this Saturday you can join to build a solar eclipse viewer. Listen to the story A Few Beautiful Minutes by Kate Allen Fox, then build a box viewer in preparation for the solar eclipse. Ages 7 and up. 1-1:45pm. FREE. Learn more...

Create Tea Light Planets
Manning Public Library, 6 S. Hoyne Ave., Chicago
In preparation for the April 8 solar eclipse, we will be creating beautiful orbs that resemble planets. This project will utilize ping-pong balls, tea lights and paint. For kids 3 to 13. 1-2pm. FREE. Learn more...

Solar Eclipse Activity
Oriole Park Public Library, 7454 W. Balmoral Avenue, Chicago
Learn more about the solar eclipse while creating a fun craft! The library is giving away solar eclipse glasses while supplies last as part of the craft. Ages 3-13. 2-4pm. FREE. Learn more...

Monday Eclipse Viewing Events

A Partial Eclipse at the Park
Pullman National Historical Park, 11141 S Cottage Grove Ave., Chicago
With 95% totality expected in Chicago, what better place to watch the eclipse than with park rangers and a NASA Ambassador at Chicago's first National Park unit. This event features local NASA Ambassador Mark Benson, who will be on hand to answer questions and offer guidance on viewing the eclipse. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the eclipse through a solar filter telescope, earn the Junior Ranger eclipse badge, enjoy eclipse themed snacks, snap a photo in a space-themed selfie station, and partake in hands on activities. All ages. 1-3pm. FREE. Bring your lawn chair and approved solar viewing glasses (a limited number of glasses will be available) Learn more...

Eclipse Encounter ’24
Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum, 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago
During our free outdoor Eclipse Encounter ’24 event, we’ll have activities around the outside of the planetarium where attendees will be encouraged to walk around, hang out, and observe the sky while the eclipse is happening. This free outdoor event includes Safe solar viewing through telescopes on the Telescope Terrace; Telescopes for solar projection and eclipse photography; Free solar viewer giveaways (while supplies last); and Photo opportunities with Big Solar Eclipse glasses. All ages. 1-3pm. FREE. Learn more...

Solar Eclipse 2024
Museum of Science and Industry, 57th St. and Lake Shore Dr., Chicago
Join us at the Museum to celebrate science in action with activities inside and out. Check out the eclipse up close with telescopic viewing of the Moon crossing the Sun's path through our solar telescopes, watch a NASA livestream with the Museum's own NASA Solar System Ambassador, or take part in family- and student-friendly hands-on activities. All ages. 10am - 3:30pm. Included with admission. Learn more...

Eclipse Viewing Party
Skokie Public Library, 5215 Oakton Street, Skokie
Gather with library staff and community members to view the solar eclipse. The best view of the eclipse will be from 1:58 to 2:06 pm. Viewing will take place on the east side of the building, on the Village Green. Additional activities and ways to learn about eclipses will be available throughout the day inside the library. All ages. 1-3pm. FREE. Learn more...

Solar Eclipse Viewing Event
DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Pl., Chicago
Join C2ST and the DuSable Museum as we experience the solar eclipse with hands-on activities, eclipse viewing glasses, and even opportunities to view the eclipse through a telescope! All ages. 11:30 am - 3:30 pm. Learn more...

Solar Eclipse Watch Party
Emily Oaks Nature Center, 4650 Brummel, Skokie
Come out and make solar eclipse viewers, eat themed snacks, play games, and learn more about why eclipses occur and how they are viewed and celebrated around the world. This event is for all ages. 1:00p.m.-2:30p.m. $7, Children under 3 are free. Learn more...