Whether you’re an astronomy enthusiast or perhaps just looking for a free way to enjoy a summer evening, August is bringing one of the best stretches of skywatching Ontario has seen in years. Three major celestial events are set to take place within just a few weeks, and Torontonians won’t have to travel far to catch the show!
The action begins on Aug. 12, when a partial solar eclipse will be visible across Ontario. The path of totality will cross parts of Greenland, Iceland and Spain, but Torontonians will still be able to catch the moon covering a portion of the sun (just remember that you should still use proper eclipse glasses when looking directly at the sun to prevent permanent eye damage).
That same night, the sky puts on an even bigger show! The Perseid meteor shower is considered one of the best meteor showers of the year, and it reaches its peak overnight on Aug. 12. This year’s display is expected to be super impressive because it coincides with a new moon (so, very dark skies and perfect viewing conditions!)
Make sure to head away from city lights, look up and you’ll likely spot dozens of meteors per hour, including the Perseids’ signature bright fireballs! No telescope is needed, just find a dark location and give your eyes about 15-30 minutes to adjust.
And just when you thought the month’s celestial show was over, there’s one more event to catch. A partial lunar eclipse that will be visible across the province overnight Aug. 27. In Toronto, the eclipse begins at about 9:23 p.m. and ends at around 3:01 a.m. on August 28, as Earth’s shadow gradually moves across the moon.
Unlike a solar eclipse, a lunar eclipse is perfectly safe to watch with a naked eye, so no protective glasses needed!
Click here for all the must-see stargazing events in Toronto for 2026, and check out some of the best spots in Southern Ontario to watch celestial events.
