Beverage

Sonic launches Blackout Slush Float to tie into solar eclipse

Fans can score a free pair of viewing glasses with every purchase, plus eclipse watching tips from a former NASA astronaut to prepare for the April 8 event.
blackout slush float
Sonic's Blackout Slush Float debuts March 25 to celebrate the total solar eclipse happening on April 8. | Photo courtesy of Sonic Drive-In.

Sonic Drive-In is rolling out the Blackout Slush Float March 25, an LTO inspired by the total solar eclipse coming up on April 8 in North America.

The new menu item features a black-colored slush with flavors of cotton candy and dragon fruit; it’s topped with white soft serve and blue and purple galaxy-themed sprinkles. The treat was created to evoke visions of outer space and reflect the temporary path of darkness that will descend next month.

Customers who purchase the Blackout Slush Float will get a free pair of viewing glasses designed for safe watching of the eclipse.

“There are over 400 Sonic locations in areas where the total solar eclipse will be visible, and we thought, what better way to create some fun for our fans as they experience this unique event than by introducing a new treat that’s as awe-inspiring as the eclipse itself?” said Mackenzie Gibson, Sonic’s VP of culinary & menu innovation, in a statement.

Sonic is also partnering with former NASA astronaut and International Space Station commander Terry Virts to share tips for safe viewing of the eclipse.

“I’ve been a longtime fan of Sonic and even tried to make slushes, shakes and burgers in space,” said Virts in a statement. “The new Blackout Slush Float creates a fun and tasty way for fans to get excited for this rare scientific phenomenon. We’ll have to wait another 20 years for the next total solar eclipse.”

The public can check out which cities are included in the path of the total eclipse on NASA.gov. Areas outside the path will still be able to view a partial solar eclipse, where the moon covers up only part of the sun. Sonic is inviting guests to watch on April 8 from the drive-ins that are in the path of totality; staff will direct them to the safest viewing spots.

Once the eclipse has passed, the Blackout Slush Float will still be on the menu, running through May 5 while supplies last.

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