Spring is its own magical season in Woodstock. One day flowers are arching skyward, and the next they’re being pelted with cold rain. But this see-saw of spring weather in the Catskills reminds us of nature’s power – and the need to be flexible. If the weather isn’t the way you like it, just wait a few hours and it will be different.
This connection to our surroundings is both humbling and refreshing, but to see nature in all her glory, look up at the sky on Monday, April 8.
A rare full solar eclipse will be traversing over North America. The solar eclipse happens when the moon passes in front of the sun, darkening the sky and dropping the temperature. Solar eclipses have inspired poets and warriors, left observers agape and marveling. While they usually happen every year, the chance of it happening in the same location is about once every 400 years according to the American Astronomical Society, so many consider this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
While Woodstock is not in the path of totality for 2024, it’s expected the partial eclipse here will still be impressive – and we want to share the experience with our guests. Here are a few reasons why our property is the perfect place for viewing the solar eclipse.
- The sun is high in the sky from the Inn’s grass area when the eclipse is expected to start about 2 p.m, (see picture).
- We’ll have both chairs and our plush beach towels available so you can be comfortable while viewing.
- We’ll have some out-of-this world treats for you to enjoy during the eclipse and for the rest of the afternoon.
- You are not on the Thruway for another 220 miles, with tens of thousands of other folks trying to get to western New York.
- We will provide safety glasses for all viewers.
- Our Sunday guests have an opportunity to enjoy 50% off Monday night’s stay. (We invite folks to come up Sunday night so you’ll be well-rested and not fighting the crowds heading upstate on Monday.) Use code ECLIPSE when you book.
While the eclipse is wondrous to view, it’s also a great opportunity to learn more about our universe. According to NASA, the full moon covering allows the sun’s outer atmosphere, called the corona, to be visible. Usually the sun’s brilliance obscures this area. And since particles ejected by the sun pass through the corona into the solar system, scientists are thrilled with this opportunity. In fact, this eclipse is part of NASA’s Heliophysics Big Year, which is a worldwide celebration of everything solar.
And while it’s easy to be overwhelmed with a galactic perspective, actually, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on how you want to spend your time and decide what you really value. Our guests often compliment us about our streamside setting, and the comfort they’ve found in the rooms. But just as important, they value the time they spend here because they get a chance to relax, unwind and enjoy precious time with loved ones – or even refreshing their own souls.
We’re thrilled to be your upstate getaway and encourage you to revisit – or come experience for the first time – Woodstock. This springtime season of renewal is a great opportunity to enjoy the beauty that springs forth in nature, and to take time to relax and rejuvenate. The sun’s warmth is not a guarantee in springtime, but it’s constant beauty is here, waiting to be enjoyed by all.
Hope you’ll visit soon.