Major UK theme park is giving away 1,000 free solar eclipse glasses as it stays open late for ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ event

BRITS are rushing to pick up a pair of eclipse glasses ahead of tomorrow’s celestial event. With most retailers sold out, one popular UK attraction is coming to the rescue. Eye experts recommend only viewing the solar eclipse using specially designed glasses (stock image) Credit: Shutterstock Editorial Blackpool Pleasure Beach is handing out free eclipse glasses to 1,000 park-goers tomorrow (stock image) Credit: Pleasure Beach Resort On Wednesday evening, the moon is set to cover almost all of the sun, dimming the evening light from about 6pm to just after 8pm, with the peak expected roughly between 7pm and 7.20pm. And while hundreds of thousands of Brits will take to beaches and parks to witness the monumental event, many might end up missing out. Sign up for the Money newsletter Thank you! Health professionals have recommended only viewing the eclipse with specially designed glasses, which have already sold out at most retailers. Thankfully, Blackpool Pleasure Beach is handing out 1,000 free solar eclipse glasses to park-goers tomorrow evening. The popular tourist attraction is set to host a massive viewing for the upcoming solar eclipse, with extended opening hours and free glasses for guests. Guests will gather on the park’s overpass in one of the largest group gatherings to view the eclipse in the North West. To protect park-goers’ eyes, Pleasure Beach will hand out 1,000 free solar eclipse glasses, which are specially designed to bear the ISO 12312–2 safety standard. With the next total eclipse not expected until September 23, 2090, CEO of Pleasure Beach Resort Amanda Thompson highlighted the importance of the event. Most read in Money “Eclipses of this kind are a rarity, so we want to give our guests a truly unique experience to remember the occasion by,” she said. “Few places can offer this experience surrounded by so much excitement, so we’d love for all guests to join us on our overpass and celebrate the special occasion together.” Viewers in Blackpool are expected to witness over 90 per cent of the sun covered by the moon. Park-goers entering later in the day can avail of a two-for-one offer, which includes two tickets and unlimited ride access for £60 from 4pm. Comment now