Makanda, a small village in southern Illinois, is gearing up for another total solar eclipse. This cosmic event is a rare occurrence, happening only once around every 375 years. In 2017, Makanda had the longest duration of totality during the eclipse, lasting 2 minutes and 42 seconds. Thousands of visitors traveled to the village to witness this spectacular event. Despite not having the longest totality this time around, festival coordinator Debbie Dunn is expecting just as many people to visit Makanda for Monday’s upcoming eclipse.
The last eclipse in 2017 left a lasting impression on both locals and visitors. One spectator described the experience as out of this world and completely unique. The festival coordinator, Dunn, shared that the eclipse brought out unexpected emotions in her. Artist Dave Dardis painted an orange line through his shop during the last eclipse to mark the center of the path of totality. Now, at 75 years old, Dardis is eagerly anticipating Monday’s eclipse and has created 1,000 pieces of jewelry for the occasion. The excitement and anticipation for this rare celestial event are palpable in the village of Makanda.
In Makanda, preparations for the eclipse are in full swing. Local businesses are capitalizing on the event by selling eclipse-themed merchandise, such as T-shirts, trucker hats, and special coffee blends made just for the occasion. The village is bustling with activity as residents and visitors gear up to witness this extraordinary cosmic event. Despite knowing that the next total solar eclipse in the U.S. won’t be until 2044 and won’t pass through Makanda, the villagers are grateful for their “astronomically good luck” in experiencing two total solar eclipses in such a short time span.
The sense of wonder and awe that the eclipse evokes is evident in Makanda. From the artist who is excited to share his creations with friends to the locals who are grateful for the opportunity to witness such a rare event, the eclipse brings a sense of community and connection. While some may view the eclipse as a purely scientific phenomenon, for the residents of Makanda, it is a chance to come together and celebrate the beauty of the universe. As they eagerly await Monday’s eclipse, the people of Makanda are filled with excitement and gratitude for being able to witness such a spectacular cosmic event in their small village.
