Where to Watch the Lunar Eclipse in Orange County – March 13, 2025

A total lunar eclipse is coming up on the night of Thursday, March 13, into the early hours of Friday, March 14. We know, we know… it’s a school night, so most families might not stay up for it. Still, it’s a rare event and a great excuse to learn about this celestial phenomenon! If you’re up for an after-hours adventure, check out these local viewing parties below.

Eclipse 101: What’s a Total Lunar Eclipse?

Imagine this: the universe playing a game of cosmic alignment. In a total lunar eclipse, the Earth moves directly between the Sun and the Moon, casting its shadow over the Moon and causing it to turn a deep, reddish color—often called a “Blood Moon.”

Unlike a total solar eclipse, where you need special glasses to watch, a lunar eclipse is completely safe to view with the naked eye. All you need is a clear sky and a good spot to watch!

Lunar Eclipse Viewing Parties in OC

Orange Coast College Planetarium, Costa Mesa
Thursday, March 13, 2025
10 PM – 1 AM

The OCC Planetarium is hosting a special late-night viewing party. Telescopes will be available for an up-close view and knowledgeable astronomers and staff will be available to answer questions and provide insights into this celestial event.

This event is free and open to the public. RSVP is not required, but highly encouraged. Dress warmly!

Learn more about the OCC Planetarium here and RSVP for the event here.

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[CANCELLED]
Caspers Wilderness Park Nature Center, San Juan Capistrano
Thursday, March 13, 2025
8:30 PM – 12:30 AM

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and anything else you might need to enjoy this celestial show. Knowledgeable volunteers will be on hand with telescopes.

This event is free, parking is $3 per vehicle. Space is limited and registration is required. Rain or significant cloud cover will cancel the event. Register here.

Lunar Eclipse Timeline

🌕 6:44 PM – Moonrise

🌑 8:57 PM – Penumbral eclipse begins

🌘 10:09 PM – Umbral eclipse begins

🔴 11:26 PM – Total eclipse begins

🔥 11:59 PM – Greatest eclipse

🔴 12:31 AM – Total eclipse ends

🌘 1:48 AM – Umbral eclipse ends

🌑 3:00 AM – Penumbral eclipse ends

_{*Timeline from the Griffith Observatory Foundation. The Observatory will be hosting an online broadcast of the eclipse. Learn more about it here.}

Even if your little ones won’t be staying up past bedtime, this is a great opportunity to talk about the wonders of space and share a special moment with your family. And if you do decide to catch a glimpse, be sure to find a dark, open sky away from city lights!

Happy stargazing!

Categories: Blog

This post was written by Kidsguide