These Solar Eclipse Discounts & Deals Are Too Good To Miss

The main topic on everyone's mind is the solar eclipse happening this Monday, Aug. 21. As one of those people, my excitement, even in New York where coverage of the sun will only be 71 percent, is high. While the eclipse is an amazing and rare event — it hasn't had its path of totality cross the United States in 99 years — the eclipse itself isn't what's giving me such excitement. No, what I am most looking forward to are the solar eclipse freebies and discounts. That's right. Companies across the country have announced deals in honor of the eclipse.

Everyone wants to get in on the eclipse action, including fast food restaurants, appliance companies, and more that are offering up limited-time deals pegged to Monday's event. I love any excuse for a bargain, so this is right up my alley. While some are strictly available on the day of the eclipse, others have already started, allowing you to get into the eclipse hype early.

If you are in the path of totality, enjoy your discount, sit back, put on your eclipse glasses, and enjoy the rare celestial event. Even if you're not in the path of totality, there will still be something to see, and you can still get in on the eclipse discounts. Read on for the best eclipse deals to use this week.

1. Dairy Queen

In honor of the eclipse, Dairy Queen has announced a buy-one get-one-free sale on Blizzards. This deal will get you two Blizzards for just 99 cents. Starting Monday, Aug. 21, this offer will last until Sunday, Sept. 3.

2. Southwest Airlines

On Aug. 21, Southwest has five flights going out that the company has deemed "celestial chasers." Flyers who book seats will not only catch a glimpse of the total eclipse but will receive "commemorative flare" such as cosmic cocktails and viewing glasses.

3. Krispy Kreme

To celebrate the eclipse, Krispy Kreme will be debuting the first-ever chocolate version of its iconic glazed doughnut. While the official launch will be on Aug. 21, eager doughnut eaters can grab one during evening Hot Light hours on the 19 and 20 of August.

4. Warby Parker

This might be the most practical deal — Warby Parker is giving away free eclipse glasses at all 44 of its locations leading up to the celestial event. Stop by and grab up to two pairs.

5. Best Buy

The electronics giant has taken this as an opportunity to be your one stop for everything you need for the eclipse. Its solar eclipse packages include either a $9.99 Celestron set of two EclipSmart Power Viewers and Eclipse Observing Kit, or a pair of $35 solar binoculars.

6. Frigidaire

The appliance brand announced its first ever black-out sale from Aug. 17 to Aug. 23. A variety of products from its Smudge-Proof Black Stainless Steel collection will be on sale for 30 percent off or more.

7. McDonald's

If you live in Oregon, the McDonald's there are on NASA and the American Astronomical Society's list of certified retailers of eclipse glasses. Hurry to get them now as they are selling out fast across the country. Missouri and Washington McDonald's locations are also offering eclipse glasses, but have not been certified.

8. DoorDash

This delivery service is offering up free half-moon cookies from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. local time on Monday in every city it has delivery. These include New York City, the Bay Area, Los Angeles, Boston, and Washington, D.C. The app will have a tab called "The Eclipse Cookie Store." Just click on it, and you're good to go.

With the variety of deals, there's something for everyone. Let the eclipse turn into the shopping holiday you never knew August needed.