Adler Planetarium on Monday hosts Chicago’s Eclipse Fest, a free, action-packed party taking place from 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The block party kicks off with a “Mad Science” live show on stage at 10:30 a.m.
At 11 a.m., the Chicago Cubs' mascot, Clark, makes an appearance. Then an eclipse-viewing demonstration takes place at 11:15 a.m. followed by live NASA coverage beginning at 11:45 a.m. NASA will broadcast the eclipse from other cities which can be viewed from Adler's main stage.
The moon will begin to block the sun at 11:54 a.m. in Chicago.
The peak eclipse viewing time, when the moon will block 87 percent of the sun, will occur at 1:19 p.m. in Chicago. Guests will receive a free pair of eclipse viewing glasses.
There will be eclipse trivia on the main stage throughout the afternoon from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.
At 4:15 p.m. the manager of program development will lead a solar oven building demonstration. The eclipse fest concludes with a closing announcement at 5:45 p.m.
All day events include “Ask an Astronomer,” DJ entertainment, science demonstrations, jumbo interactive games (including giant Jenga), a “selfie” station, bounce house, telescope viewings and more.
In addition to the fest, Adler’s exhibits will be available with reduced ticket prices. This includes the newest exhibit, "Chasing Eclipses."
