Gregory MacIvor’s childhood dream of witnessing a total solar eclipse in his hometown of Miramichi, N.B. was finally realized in 2024. He first learned about the upcoming eclipse when he was 11 years old, and since then, he had eagerly anticipated the event. Now 56, MacIvor, who currently resides in Calgary, returned to his hometown to experience the celestial event. The city of Miramichi expected around 15,000 people to gather at the local airport for a viewing party, complete with food vendors and music. The eclipse held a special significance for Indigenous communities, with ceremonies and drumming adding to the mystical atmosphere.
For the Mi’kmaq community, the solar eclipse was seen as a reminder of the gifts provided by Mother Earth. The event symbolized a moment of darkness followed by the emergence of light, emphasizing the appreciation for the natural world. Eclipse chasers from various provinces and even countries like the U.K. made the journey to Miramichi to witness the rare phenomenon. The economic impact of the event was significant, with parking registration for the airport viewing exceeding expectations. Local businesses in Miramichi benefitted from the influx of visitors, with hotels selling out and restaurants bustling with activity, providing a welcome boost to the economy.
TJ Hansen, a lifelong resident of Miramichi, was surprised by the attention his homemade eclipse-themed t-shirt garnered. Wearing a shirt that humorously referenced the blackout experienced during the eclipse, Hansen was caught off guard by the sudden popularity. As the moment of maximum totality approached, the atmosphere in Miramichi was filled with excitement and wonder. Cheers erupted as darkness enveloped the city for two minutes and 12 seconds, with spectators expressing awe and amazement at the spectacle. Kathy Walker, who travelled from Kentville, N.S., to witness the eclipse, reflected on the significance of experiencing such a rare event in her lifetime, acknowledging that she may not have the chance to witness another one.
The solar eclipse in Miramichi brought together people from different backgrounds and communities, all united in their awe and appreciation for the natural phenomenon. The event served as a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the universe, as well as the importance of cherishing and protecting our planet. For many, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness a total solar eclipse in their own backyard. As the city of Miramichi basked in the aftermath of the celestial event, residents and visitors alike were left with lasting memories of a magical and unforgettable experience that brought them closer to the mysteries of the cosmos.
