Solar Eclipse 2024 Complete Guide To Freebies Deals And Special Offers

The total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, is generating excitement not just among astronomy enthusiasts but also among businesses offering special promotions and freebies. Restaurants, food companies, retailers, and service providers across the United States are capitalizing on this celestial phenomenon with exclusive deals, limited-edition products, and complimentary items. This comprehensive guide details all the verified offers available to consumers during this astronomical event.

Food and Drink Special Offers

Restaurant Promotions

Numerous restaurant chains have created eclipse-themed promotions and special menu items for April 8, 2024:

Burger King is offering a buy-one-get-one-free Whopper deal exclusively for Royal Perks members. To claim this offer, members must text "ECLIPSE" to 251251 on April 8. The deal can be redeemed through the Burger King app or on their website between April 8 and April 15.

Pizza Hut has introduced the "Total Eclipse of the Hut" deal, offering any large pizza for $12. Customers can create their own pizza with up to 10 toppings or select from Pizza Hut's recipe pizzas, including Thin' N Crispy, Hand Tossed, and Original Pan varieties. This offer is valid for carryout, dine-in, and delivery options.

Applebee's is featuring the "Perfect Eclipse Margarita," a special cocktail made with Patrón Premium Silver Blanco Tequila, Citrónge Orange Liqueur, Monin blue raspberry and passion fruit syrups, lemon, and lime. This drink is available now through April 14 at participating locations.

Cracker Barrel is offering a free side of pancakes with the purchase of any entree. This promotion is available only for customers who dine in and requires mentioning "eclipse pancakes" to your server on April 8.

Raising Cane's is providing free Texas toast with every Combo meal purchased, but this offer is limited to locations within the path of totality. Additionally, the chain is running a sweepstakes starting at 12:01 a.m. ET on April 8, where one lucky customer can win free Raising Cane's for 20 years.

Wendy's is offering a free Frosty (either chocolate or the new orange dreamsicle flavor) with any purchase from April 8 to April 14. The chain is also providing a $0.00 delivery fee on April 8.

7-Eleven is giving 7NOW Gold Pass subscribers the opportunity to purchase a whole pizza for $3 all day on April 8. Additionally, the company is selling solar eclipse glasses at participating 7-Eleven, Speedway, and Stripes stores. Subscribers can also add a free pair of solar eclipse shades to any order placed between April 4 and April 8 while supplies last.

Sonic has created a limited-edition "Blackout Slush Float" that will be available until May 5. On April 8, the chain will be giving away free solar eclipse viewing glasses with the purchase of this new treat while supplies last.

Biggby Coffee is offering special eclipse-themed drinks on April 8, including "The Solar Flare" and "The Eclipse Biggby Blast."

Special Eclipse Food Items

Several food companies have released eclipse-themed products:

Krispy Kreme has introduced the "Total Solar Eclipse Doughnut," which is an original Krispy Kreme glazed doughnut dipped in black chocolate icing and topped with silver sprinkles. This special doughnut is available through April 8.

SunChips is releasing two new flavors: Pineapple Habanero and Black Bean Spicy Gouda. Fans can purchase these special flavors starting at 1:33 p.m. CST on April 8 at SunChipsSolarEclipse.com, but only during the duration of the eclipse (4 minutes and 27 seconds), while supplies last.

Blue Moon is offering Eclipse Sips Kits for $25, available for purchase through the Blue Moon website starting at noon on April 3.

SusieCakes has created limited-time cupcakes specifically for the Solar Eclipse, perfect for those hosting or attending eclipse parties on April 8.

Tincup Whiskey has created a "Totality Bundle" consisting of a 750-milliliter bottle of their 10-year bourbon and two Carabiner mugs for $78, with free shipping.

Local Eclipse Events

Eclipsed Bloomington is hosting a day-long festival at Trinity Reformed Church featuring food trucks including Pili's Party Taco and Little Bowl Thai Chicken. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and include eclipse-themed menu items, live music, and a treasure hunt. Eclipse glasses will be available for $1 each, with automobile parking costing $10.

Free Eclipse Viewing Glasses

Several retailers and businesses are providing complimentary solar eclipse viewing glasses:

Warby Parker is giving away free solar eclipse glasses at their locations from April 1 through April 8. Each family can receive up to two pairs while supplies last. If glasses run out, they will offer an eclipse pinhole projector so people can view the total eclipse safely.

Twin Peaks will be distributing free eclipse glasses on April 8 to customers who visit their locations.

7-Eleven is selling solar eclipse glasses at participating stores, as mentioned earlier, and is providing free pairs to 7NOW Gold Pass subscribers with qualifying orders.

Sonic is also giving away free solar eclipse viewing glasses with the purchase of their new "Blackout Slush Float" on April 8.

How to Access These Offers

To take advantage of these eclipse day promotions, consumers should follow these general guidelines:

1. Check eligibility requirements: Some offers require membership in loyalty programs (like Burger King's Royal Perks or 7-Eleven's 7NOW Gold Pass).

2. Mark important dates: Many offers are specifically for April 8, while others have extended availability through April 14 or 15.

3. Download necessary apps: Several offers require the use of restaurant apps for redemption.

4. Visit participating locations: Some offers are only available at specific locations or those within the path of totality.

5. Act quickly: Many offers are limited by supplies and may not be available for the entire day.

Tips for Maximizing Eclipse Day Deals

1. Plan ahead: Download necessary apps and sign up for loyalty programs before April 8 to ensure you're eligible for offers.

2. Check local participation: Not all locations may participate in promotions, so verify with your local restaurants and retailers.

3. Combine offers where possible: Some promotions can be combined with existing discounts or loyalty benefits.

4. Arrive early: For in-person offers, especially those with limited supplies, visiting early in the day increases your chances of receiving the free item.

5. Share with others: Many offers allow for multiple items or have family-friendly policies, making it easier to share the eclipse experience with companions.

Safety Considerations

While enjoying eclipse day promotions, it's important to remember safety guidelines for viewing the solar eclipse:

1. Use proper eye protection: Never look directly at the sun without certified solar eclipse viewing glasses.

2. Verify glasses authenticity: Ensure eclipse glasses meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard.

3. Supervise children: Children should be supervised when using eclipse viewing glasses to ensure proper usage.

4. Check weather conditions: Cloud cover may affect eclipse viewing, but promotions will still be available.

5. Follow official guidance: Consult NASA or other astronomical organizations for the most up-to-date eclipse information and safety recommendations.

Conclusion

The 2024 total solar eclipse has inspired numerous businesses to offer special promotions and freebies to consumers. From restaurant deals and limited-edition food items to free eclipse viewing glasses, there are numerous ways to celebrate this astronomical event while enjoying savings and exclusive products. By planning ahead and understanding the requirements for each offer, consumers can maximize their eclipse day experience. Remember to prioritize safety when viewing the eclipse and take advantage of these verified promotions to make the most of this celestial phenomenon.

Sources

1. Where to get 'totality' awesome deals, freebies for Eclipse Day 2024
2. Solar Eclipse Freebies & Deals
3. Eclipse food deals: Nosh on specials and get freebies along the Path of Totality
4. Eclipse 2024 Special Food and Snacks Deals and Freebies
5. Total Solar Eclipse Deals 2024
6. Eclipse-Inspired Food Deals & Specials April 8