Long Island SONICs Giving Away Free Eclipse Glasses With Purchase of a Blackout Slush Float
SONIC restaurant says that it is giving away a free pair of solar eclipse glasses with the purchase of its new Blackout Slush Float, out now for a limited time. The glasses will be available while supplies last so patrons can experience the North American total solar eclipse on April 8th.
“Featuring a sweet, cotton candy and dragon fruit flavored, all-black slush representing the temporary darkness from the solar eclipse and topped with creamy white soft serve and blue and purple galaxy-themed sprinkles, the Blackout Slush Float will transport fans straight to outer space,” the brand said in a news release.
SONIC has five locations on Long Island, including East Meadow, North Babylon, Shirley, Nesconset, and Valley Stream.
SONIC is also partnering with former NASA astronaut, International Space Station commander and SONIC superfan, Terry Virts, to share tips on how to best enjoy the total solar eclipse. A veteran of two space flights and three spacewalks who has witnessed an eclipse from the ISS, some of his expert insights include:
- This total solar eclipse is rare because it only happens every one to two decades: The last happened in 2017, and the next won’t be until 2044. Take advantage of this incredible scientific event, especially for those located in the path of totality, where the moon completely covers the sun!
- Areas outside of the path of totality will still be able to enjoy a visual spectacle and see a partial eclipse, which is when the moon only covers up a part of the sun.
- From space, a total solar eclipse looks like a big black shadow on the ground. Even from 1,000 miles away on the ISS, the eclipse is still visible!
- Make sure to wear the proper protection on your eyes when viewing the eclipse. Eclipse-viewing glasses are not regular sunglasses. They are specially designed to comply with international standards and protect your eyes.
“I’ve been a longtime fan of SONIC and even tried to make slushes, shakes and burgers in space – and the new Blackout Slush Float creates a fun and tasty way for fans to get excited for this rare scientific phenomenon,” said Virts. “We’ll have to wait another 20 years for the next total solar eclipse, so be sure to make plans to watch this one.”
Check out which cities are included in the path of totality on NASA.gov.
On April 8th people can also go back to SONIC to view the eclipse while enjoying the Blackout Slush Float – just ask the team at the drive-in about the safest spot for viewing.
The Blackout Slush Float can be ordered at participating locations nationwide, starting March 25 through May 5th while supplies last. Prices vary by location.
According to the company, the eclipse viewing glasses have been approved for short-term direct observation of the sun by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and have been lab tested to ensure they are safe and meet all applicable rules and regulations. Check the back of the glasses for additional, detailed safety information before use.
