(KNZA)--The city of Hiawatha will offer temporary camping sites on city-owned property for the August 21st solar eclipse event.

The City Commission Monday evening approved a resolution authorizing temporary camping August 18th-22nd at Bruning Park, Starr Park and the Municipal Airport.

The city will charge $25 a day for tents and RV camping at Bruning Park, $35 a day for RV camping at the Hiawatha Municipal Airport, and $50 a day for RV camping at Starr Park where 8 full hook-up sites are available.

City staff will man the sites, working 5-hour shifts.  

Hiawatha is in the direct path of a total solar eclipse that will span across the United States from Oregon to South Carolina on August 21st.  Totality, which will take place at 1:05 that afternoon for about 2 minutes and 34 seconds, is predicted to draw thousands of people to the community throughout the weekend.

The Hiawatha Chamber and Visitors Bureau will be hosting an eclipse viewing party called “ Brown County Blackout” that will take place from 11:30 to 2:30 between the Fisher Community Center and Noble Legion Baseball Park.  There will be live music, a beer garden, vendors and children’s entertainment.  

In addition, NASA engineer Mike Davis will be giving a presentation in the loft room at the Fisher Center from 10 to 11 that morning.  There is no charge.