All over Connecticut, people can't stop talking about the Great American Eclipse. We'll experience an approximately 68% eclipse beginning at around 1:25 PM. It will reach maximum effect around 2:45 PM and end around 4:00 PM.

Now that you know the basics, it's time to decide where to view this spectacular natural phenomenon. Fortunately, there are plenty of awesome gatherings to choose from.

1. Solar Eclipse Cruise, RiverQuest, Haddam

Enjoy the solar eclipse during a cruise hosted by RiverQuest. All guests will be given eclipse glasses for safe viewing. The number of reservations will be limited to ensure everyone on board gets a great view.

1 Marine Park, Route 82, Eagle Landing State Park

Haddam, Connecticut, CT 06438

2. Total Eclipse Celebration, Connecticut Science Center, Hartford

View the eclipse while enjoying fun, family-friendly activities at the Connecticut Science Center. There will be food trucks, and DJ Faro will bring the party. Vasu Tribe Studio will lead a yoga flow in celebration of the rare celestial event. The celebration kicks off on Sunday and will run throughout the day on Monday.

250 Columbus Blvd, Hartford, CT 06103

3. The Solar Eclipse Viewing Party, University of Connecticut, Storrs

The Department of Physics at UConn will host a viewing party on Monday from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Horsebarn Hill (next to the Dairy Bar). There will be four solar telescopes set up and viewing glasses available on a first come, first serve basis. Educational components include a tutorial on eclipses and an "Ask an Astrophysicist" session.

3636 Horsebarn Hill Rd Ext, Storrs, CT 06269

4. Solar Eclipse Party, White Memorial Conservation Center, Litchfield

In celebration of the eclipse, the White Memorial Conservation Center is throwing a party. Solar viewing glasses will be available in the museum shop for just one dollar.

80 Whitehall Rd.

Litchfield, CT 06759

5. Great American Solar Eclipse, John J. McCarthy Observatory, New Milford

The observatory will have many solar telescopes, binoculars, and glasses for visitors to use as the moon passes in front of the sun.

388 Danbury Rd, New Milford, Connecticut 06776

Will you view the eclipse from one of these gatherings, or will you find a cool spot of your own? Remember to submit your best eclipse photos to our Facebook and Instagram for a chance to have your work featured!

Would you prefer to watch the eclipse on your own in nature? Hike to Mount Tom Tower for an unbelievable view.