Valencia Distributes Free Glasses for the August 12 Solar Eclipse

On August 12, 2026, Valencia will be able to see a total solar eclipse — the first in over a hundred years. The city authorities have launched a special safety plan for the day and prepared certified solar-viewing glasses, which are available free of charge.

The glasses are being distributed by the municipal organisation València Sostenible. One pair is available per person, while supplies last. They can be picked up at the following locations: the Oficina de l'Energia (Aiora, Parc de l'Oest, Torrefiel) and at the Observatori del Canvi Climàtic. No booking is needed — just show up during any of the centres' opening hours.

Glasses are separately guaranteed for those already registered for València Sostenible's free summer events. This applies to participants in the Estiu DiverActiu program (family workshops, games, and environmental activities held in various parts of the city in July and August) and to attendees of the Oficina de l'Energia's workshops on energy saving.

Besides distributing the glasses, City Hall has approved, through the Local Civil Protection Commission, an overall plan for the day of the eclipse — it will coordinate the work of the municipal police, firefighters, civil protection services, medical staff, cleaning crews, and public transport in case of a large influx of people.

The authorities remind residents that watching a solar eclipse without protection is dangerous — it can cause irreversible eye damage. Only glasses specifically certified for solar viewing may be used; ordinary sunglasses are not suitable.

The partial phase of the eclipse will begin on August 12 at around 7:30 PM. Total darkness will fall at 8:31 PM and will last between 30 and 60 seconds. The eclipse will end almost simultaneously with sunset — around 9:24 PM. All information about viewing locations and the event schedule is available on the dedicated portal.