6 ways to celebrate the total solar eclipse in Delaware on April 8 with food, drink

Astronomers and night owls have a big day coming up in less than a week. On Monday, April 8, a total solar eclipse will pass through North America’s vantage point for the first time in seven years.

Once you get the proper eyewear and make plans to view the rarity, there is still more room for celebration.

Food retailers and restaurants in the region are taking advantage of the big day, offering plenty of deals and specials for customers to celebrate properly.

Here are six eclipse-themed ways to indulge in food and drink leading up to the solar eclipse.

More:When is the 2024 total solar eclipse? Your guide to glasses, forecast, where to watch.

Eclipse Bistro

OK, this one may be a little on the nose. But what better way to celebrate the eclipse than dining at its namesake?

Eclipse is known for its bistro-style menu with entrée dishes like seared scallops, veal chop, crab cakes, burgers and more ready to be devoured.

Although the solar eclipse takes place on a Monday, Eclipse (the restaurant) offers half-off glasses of wine on Wednesdays — just in case you want to extend the party!

1020 N. Union St., Wilmington. Visit eclipsebistro.com

Dewey Beer's Sunset Eclipse

Dewey Beer Co. may not be releasing any limited edition brews, but they have been inadvertently celebrating the upcoming event with its highly regarded Sunset Eclipse beers.

With its blend of roasted coffee and chocolate notes, Sunset Eclipse has recently been voted the No. 1 Best American Stout in Delaware by Untappd, a social network that allows users to rate and review different beers.

Sunset Eclipse has been described as “a brew that paints the evening sky with flavor”, a perfect marriage between supporting local brews and appreciating the moon’s journey.

Dewey Beer Co., 2100 Coastal Highway, Dewey Beach. Visitdeweybeerco.com

Sonic's Blackout Slush Float

Sonic Drive-In announced a limited-edition Blackout Slush Float in honor of the total solar eclipse.

The drink consists of a black slush base with a cotton candy and dragon fruit flavor, representing the “temporary darkness from the solar eclipse.'' It will be topped with a white soft serve and blue and purple galaxy-themed sprinkles to “transport fans straight to outer space.” Customers also will receive a free pair of solar eclipse viewing glasses with every phase of the drink.

The float will be available at participating Sonic locations nationwide from March 25 to May 5.

Sonic has two locations in and near Delaware:

• 18757 U.S. Route 13, Bridgeville, Delaware; (302) 377-9830.
• 103 E. Pulaski Highway, Elkton, Maryland; (410) 398-0430.
• Visit sonicdrivein.com

Blue Moon

Although named after a slightly different astronomical phenomenon, Rehoboth’s Blue Moon restaurant, bar and entertainment make it a perfect place to celebrate.

Happy hour is from 4 to 6 p.m. every Monday through Friday featuring half-priced cocktails, beers, wines by the glass and appetizers.

The weekend leading up to the solar eclipse is full of fun events to enjoy, too.

On Saturday, April 6, Blue Moon will host its Legends Show at 8 p.m., featuring its cast of live-singing celebrity impersonators. Dinner reservations are required, and make sure you select “high top” if you want to catch the show.

Sunday will feature a drag bingo brunch from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. with mimosa and Bloody Mary specials. Sunday specials will be offered; diners can order an 8-ounce prime filet mignon with a choice of mash, duck fat fingerlings, russet fries, sweet potato fries or chef’s veggies for $29; and any bottle of wine on the list will also be offered for $29.

Following Monday’s late afternoon solar event, Blue Moon will also hold a “2 Dine for $39” special, where customers can choose two dinners from the restaurant’s weekly menu for just $39.

35 Baltimore Ave., Rehoboth Beach. Visit bluemoonrehoboth.com

MoonPies

MoonPies, the beloved s’more-themed cookie, is celebrating the eclipse by selling limited-edition Eclipse cartons, fit with 12 mini MoonPies and eclipse glasses in each box.

“Since it’s the day that the ‘moon wins,' it’s only appropriate that the party include some MoonPies,” the company stated in a press release.

The Eclipse cartons are being sold in stores nationwide and are available for online purchase.

Krispy Kreme

From April 5 to 8, doughnut lovers can enjoy a limited edition Total Solar Eclipse Doughnut from Krispy Kreme.

In honor of the dark afternoon to come, Krispy Kreme's classic glazed donut will be dipped in black chocolate icing, topped with silver sprinkles, piped with buttercream made with OREO pieces and adorned with a whole OREO cookie in its center.

This isn't the first time the doughnut brand has paid homage to astronomical marvels. The Total Solar Eclipse Doughnut first debuted during 2017's solar eclipse event. Since then it's celebrated two of NASA's recent feats: first with its Mars Doughnut in honor of the Mars landing in 2021 and with the Artemis Moon Doughnut in 2022 for NASA's Artemis I flight around the moon.

The Total Solar Eclipse Doughnut will be available for purchase in stores and for pickup or delivery with the Krispy Kreme app and website.

Visit moonpie.com/find