Sponsored By

Restaurants rise to meet the solar eclipse occasionRestaurants rise to meet the solar eclipse occasion

Take a look at how restaurants – big, small and in between – are cashing in on the rare occasion of a total solar eclipse on April 8.

Alicia Kelso, Executive Editor

April 5, 2024

24 Slides
Frosty Eclipse

Already have an account?

Marketers have had two extra days added to the calendar this year – Leap Day and the Solar Eclipse. Plenty of restaurant brands took advantage of Leap Day promotions in February, but the Solar Eclipse on Monday, April 8, may be even more lucrative. It’s certainly more uncommon; while Leap Day falls every four years, this total solar eclipse will be the last chance for Americans to see one for 21 years.

Solar eclipses have plenty of allure, symbolizing disruption and reflection. Some traditions view such an event as a rebirth, while others consider it to be a bad omen. Regardless, Americans are expected to spend money – on gas, lodging, and food – to witness the about 4-and-a-half-minute-long phenomenon. The Perryman Group estimates that the April 8 total solar eclipse will generate nearly $1.6 billion in economic activity, or more than $4.6 billion when considering the multiplier effects.

Plenty of restaurant brands, big, small and in between, are hoping to cash in on some of that excitement. Let’s take a look at some eclipse promotions (but be sure to wear the right glasses when looking at the actual eclipse!)

About the Author

Alicia Kelso

Executive Editor, Nation's Restaurant News

Alicia Kelso is the executive editor of Nation's Restaurant News. She began covering the restaurant industry in 2010 for QSRweb.com, FastCasual.com and PizzaMarketplace.com. When her son was born, she left the industry to pursue a role in higher education, but swiftly returned after realizing how much she missed the space. In filling that void, Alicia added a contributor role at Restaurant Dive and a senior contributor role at Forbes.
Her work has appeared in publications around the world, including Forbes Asia, NPR, Bloomberg, The Seattle Times, Crain's Chicago, Good Morning America and Franchise Asia Magazine.
Alicia holds a degree in journalism from Bowling Green State University, where she competed on the women's swim team. In addition to cheering for the BGSU Falcons, Alicia is a rabid Michigan fan and will talk about college football with anyone willing to engage. She lives in Louisville, Kentucky, with her wife and son.

Subscribe Nation's Restaurant News Newsletters
Get the latest breaking news in the industry, analysis, research, recipes, consumer trends, the latest products and more.