In the grand cosmic calendar, a total solar eclipse is a momentous event, attracting a global audience. One such event, eagerly anticipated, will soon be gracing the skies over the Texas Hill Country. With thousands planning to witness this celestial spectacle, small towns and cities in the region are bracing for an influx of visitors.
The Texas Hill Country, a picturesque landscape renowned for its rolling hills and sparkling rivers, will soon play host to a spectacular celestial event – a total solar eclipse. One of the most sought-after viewing locations in the country, the region is gearing up for a record-breaking turnout of visitors from across the globe.
Kerrville, a quaint city nestled in the heart of the Hill Country, will be among the first cities in the U.S. to witness the totality of the eclipse. The city is in prime position to provide an extended eclipse experience, with a totality duration of 4 minutes and 25 seconds.
NASA, the world’s leading space agency, has handpicked Kerrville, along with two other cities in the nation, to livestream the eclipse. The live broadcast will take place from Louise Hays Park, located a few miles from the center line of totality. The eclipse is estimated to begin at 1:32 p.m.
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For those who may not be able to secure a spot in Kerrville due to hotel accommodations selling out or traffic congestions, there are alternatives available.
Boerne, a city located approximately 30 minutes from Kerrville, is also preparing to welcome thousands of eclipse chasers. Communication director for the City of Boerne, Chris Shadrock, shares, “That weekend there’s definitely going to be an uptick in traffic across the interstate and on our local streets. We’re fully prepared for that.”
Despite not hosting an official city-sponsored event, Boerne is expected to be flooded by visitors keen to experience a totality of 3 minutes and 23 seconds. Shadrock anticipates that the city’s population of 22,000 could potentially double during the eclipse.
Local businesses in Boerne’s historic downtown area are proactively preparing for the influx of visitors. Regular meetings are held to discuss logistics and ensure smooth operations during the event.
Lacey Retzloff, owner of two boutiques in town, expresses her excitement, “It’s a great opportunity for all the businesses here because we’re gonna have lots of people. We have people calling from like all over the United States saying they’re coming to Boerne to see it.”
Retzloff is planning a solar eclipse-themed market to boost local economy and offer visitors a chance to take home a piece of Boerne history.
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Interestingly, the solar eclipse has also transformed Boerne into a wedding destination. A couple from out of state has planned to exchange vows during the totality of the eclipse, adding a unique celestial touch to their special day.
Despite the excitement, some locals are apprehensive about the expected turnout. Brandi Sees, a local business owner, shares her concern, “I’m excited, but nervous because of the expectations that they’re going to have for the people coming to town. It can really overrun all of us.”
To accommodate the expected crowds, local stores have stocked up on essentials like eclipse glasses and are planning to increase staff on the day of the event.
For more information including the location of the market in Boerne, click here.
For more information on total eclipse events in the Hill Country, click here.