The Port de Cabús, standing at 2,328 metres, is set to host the Eclipse Festival on Wednesday, 12 August. Mònica Solé, the Tourism Councillor, stated, "As a Starlight parish, we had to organise an event around this phenomenon, leading to the creation of the Eclipse Festival, which combines guided observation with approved glasses and a festive atmosphere, including live music and gastronomy."
During the event's presentation, Solé emphasised the necessity of using certified glasses throughout all phases of the eclipse, as it will not be a total eclipse and protecting one's eyesight is crucial. Emma Jiménez, head of Tourism, noted that registrations for the festival can be made at visitlamassana.ad. The welcome package costs €5 and includes a specially designed fabric bag for the eclipse, approved glasses, and other merchandise, along with transport from Coll de la Botella to Port de Cabús.
It is important to note that the road will be closed to vehicle traffic to ensure safety during the festivities. Access will also be available on foot or by bicycle. Additionally, attendees can purchase a commemorative glass or a limited-edition bottle of wine for the eclipse. The phenomenon will be explained by Starlight monitor Jordi Colell, who remarked, "The initial and final phases of the eclipse are the same, whether total or partial. The difference lies in the central phase, where we will not see the totality but rather a small 2% gap, highlighting the importance of using filters."
Alongside the eclipse, Colell will also guide participants through another astronomical event occurring that day: the Perseid meteor shower, also known as the Tears of Saint Lawrence. The festival will commence at 6 PM, featuring ambient music, a food truck, and a bar service. The guided observation of the eclipse is scheduled from approximately 8 PM to 8:30 PM, followed by a performance from the cover band Tributo Definitivo, which will entertain guests with danceable tunes. The night will also provide an opportunity to observe the meteor shower with Colell's explanations. The festival is expected to conclude around 11 PM, with the minibus service ending at midnight.
Furthermore, the Northern Valleys Photographic Association (AFVAN) has organised an astrophotography workshop aimed at photographers. In the event of inclement weather, the festival will be relocated to the sociocultural hall in Arinsal, located in the Quart building.
