CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – October 9, 2022 – The Gulf Coast Capital is gearing up to become the state’s champion eclipse destination as Space Meets Shore in Corpus Christi, Texas. On October 14th, 2023, both visitors and local residents will be granted a rare opportunity to witness this year's Annular Eclipse, with a precise duration of 5 minutes and 2 seconds, solidifying Corpus Christi as the Texas state's premiere destination for the longest eclipse visibility.  

An Annular Eclipse occurs when the moon partially covers the sun, creating a captivating "ring of fire" effect. Corpus Christi's pristine beaches and clear skies provide the ideal setting for this awe-inspiring phenomenon.  Brett Oetting, President and CEO for Visit Corpus Christi, commented, "Over the last decade, the tourism industry has seen huge increases in visitation from around the world for these unique events. But none of those have been on the water and we are looking forward to celebrating the darkness.” 

According to recent data, the city's hotels have experienced an impressive 55% increase in reservations for the weekend of October 13th to October 15th compared to the same period last year. This remarkable influx of visitors underscores the growing enthusiasm and interest surrounding this celestial spectacle, making Corpus Christi poised to be a significant draw for tourism.  

“We have only few rooms to sell that weekend and we expect to be at full capacity. As we expect a lot of visitors, we’ll organize additional activities and food and beverage tastings for our guest,” said Krystoff Kucewicz, General Manager of the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel. 

In addition to the celestial wonder, local attractions have curated special programming and events to coincide with the eclipse. From immersive STEM activities to Ring of Fire Boat Cruises, and beyond, Corpus Christi attractions have truly embraced the spirit of "Space Meets Shore." 

Event Programming Includes:

Ring of Fire Eclipse at Padre Island National Seashore 

Location: 20301 Park Road 22, Corpus Christi, TX 78418 

Time: Starting at 10:00 a.m.  

La Palmera Viewing Party  

Location: La Palmera Mall at 5488 S Padre Island Dr, Corpus Christi, TX 78411 

Time: 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. 

Valero Eclipse Extravaganza  

Location: Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History at 1900 N Chaparral St, Corpus Christi, TX 78401 

Time: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

As anticipation builds for the celestial spectacle, Visit Corpus Christi is ensuring that spectators can safely enjoy the eclipse with up to 2 complimentary eclipse sunglasses per person being distributed at the Visitor Information Center located at 309 N Water St. while supplies last.  

For more events and information about the Annular Eclipse in Corpus Christi, please visit: https://www.visitcorpuschristi.com/eclipse/33

ABOUT VISIT CORPUS CHRISTI:

Visit Corpus Christi is a state and national award-winning 501c6 Destination Management Organization contracted by the city of Corpus Christi with a mission to create a better community by sharing Corpus Christi with the world. The organization is primarily funded through Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT) paid by visitors while staying overnight in hotels and short-term rentals. Visit Corpus Christi also has a non-profit foundation that supports the hospitality and tourism industry via education programs, raising and providing funding to individuals and businesses during times of need through the Visit CC Cares program.

For more information go to visitcorpuschristi.com