Excitement is brewing as Beebe prepares to be in the path of totality for the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse on April 8. This presents an incredible opportunity for us to showcase our community and ensure every visitor experiences the warmth and hospitality that defines Beebe. For many, this will be their first visit, and we aim to make it so enjoyable that they'll want to return time and again!

 

Anticipating a surge of 2-3 times our usual visitors, here are key strategies and insights to help your businesses prepare for this event. Many visitors will come in a few days early and stay a little after. For a more detailed guide, we highly recommend watching this informative video: 2024 Eclipse video from Heber Springs. This video has been shared with the Beebe Chamber to help inform you all of what to expect.

 

Restaurants:

• Have menus focused on eclipse-themed options to expedite food preparation and help with storage.

• Promote special items to entice eclipse enthusiasts.

• Increase product orders and their frequency to meet heightened demand.

• Consider extending operating hours and explore options to expand seating capacity.

• Explore the feasibility of offering an outdoor to-go service for added convenience.

 

Retail:

• Ramp up orders for essential products and supplies to meet the surge in demand.

• Consider sourcing eclipse-themed souvenirs to captivate eclipse-watchers.

• Strategize on parking lot usage; will you allow non-guest parking during this period?

 

Hotels:

• Deliberate appropriate pricing and minimum stay policies for maximum benefit.

• Keep the Beebe Chamber of Commerce updated on occupancy levels preceding the eclipse.

• Ensure ample supplies through increased product orders.

 

Gas Stations:

• Increase inventory and supply orders to avoid running out of essentials, as witnessed during the 2017 eclipse. (water, toilet paper, food and cash)

• Explore stocking souvenirs or eclipse-related products for allure.

 

Manufacturers:

• Prepare for potential traffic disruptions causing delayed deliveries or altered trucking routes.

• If closing your facility, consider opening parking lots as viewing areas.

 

Banking:

• Increase change-making capabilities for the public and businesses.

• Have plans to increase and replenish ATM machines.

 

General Information and Suggestions:

• Anticipate 2-3 times the usual crowd.

• Ensure contingency plans for internet or cell service outages.

• Consider adjustments to operating hours leading up to the eclipse day.

• Keep informed via social media, websites, and keep the chamber or city in the loop.

• Explore options to expand parking areas.

• Decorate your business with eclipse-themed signage.

 

Above all, let's extend a warm Beebe welcome, ensuring every visitor leaves with an unforgettable experience!

 

Viewing Sites:

• ASU-Beebe, parking $20

• Beebe Community Pond

• Beebe City Ballpark

 

Up-to-date Information:

• https://www.facebook.com/eclipsewithus

• https://www.asub.edu//2024-eclipse/

• https://www.facebook.com/BeebeChamberofCommerce

  

Additionally, please familiarize yourselves with the statewide ARDOT traffic plan released view here, aiding us in coordinating our efforts effectively.

 

Let's make Beebe shine during this momentous event. Together, we'll create memories that linger and beckon visitors back to our beloved community.

 

Order commemorative eclipse shirts now! CLICK HERE