Skip to Content
The Florida Aquarium Home

Santa’s Post-Christmas Getaway: Relaxing in Style at The Florida Aquarium

Vacation santa in front of The Florida Aquarium

December 26, 2024

Share Story

Share

Tampa, FL (December 25, 2024) – After a magical holiday season of delivering presents around the globe, Santa Claus has chosen The Florida Aquarium as his ultimate post-Christmas retreat. Having enjoyed his time at YuleTides at The Florida Aquarium so much during his pre-holiday stop, Santa decided it’s the perfect place for a much-needed vacation to recharge before heading back to the North Pole.

>>CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROADCAST-QUALITY VIDEOS
AND PHOTOS OF SANTA ON VACATION + YULETIDES AT THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM <<
Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium

 

From December 26 through January 1, Santa will trade his unique, YuleTides blue suit for a laid-back tropical look, complete with a festive shirt, comfy shorts, and his signature Christmas hat. From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily, guests of all ages are invited to snap photos at Santa’s Wharf with a relaxed and cheerful Saint Nick as he enjoys Florida’s sunshine and the Aquarium’s breathtaking marine life.

“We’re excited to welcome Santa back to The Florida Aquarium for his well-deserved vacation,” said Corey Romberg, Director of Guest Engagement at The Florida Aquarium. “We believe in creating memorable experiences for families, and what better way to continue the holiday cheer than by giving guests the chance to meet Santa in a fun, laid-back atmosphere. It’s the perfect way to unwind and celebrate the season, while enjoying all that the Aquarium has to offer.”

Santa’s return visit to the brand-new YuleTides at The Florida Aquarium extends the holiday magic for families looking to celebrate the season in a unique and festive way. This one-of-a-kind event immerses guests in coastal holiday traditions from around the world with enchanting seaside décor, fun activities including beach games and crafts, live entertainment, and animal encounters to celebrate the SEAson. Along with meeting Santa, visitors can explore the Aquarium’s immersive exhibits, marvel at marine wildlife, and create lasting memories.

YuleTides at The Florida Aquarium runs daily with extended hours from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. December 26 through January 5, 2025, except New Year’s Eve (closes at 4:30 p.m.). The event is included in general admission. For more information, to purchase tickets, and make advance reservations, click here.

|

The Latest from The Florida Aquarium

  • Three women standing on rocks in front of the water

    June 3, 2026

    The Florida Aquarium Celebrates World Ocean Day with a Weekend of Action and Inspiration

    Tampa, FL – Covering nearly 71% of Earth’s surface, the ocean sustains life as we know it — providing food, oxygen, recreation, and habitat for millions of species. In celebration of World Ocean Day on Monday, June 8, The Florida Aquarium will host a full weekend of events designed to inspire action, raise awareness, and support the protection and restoration of our oceans and marine life.

    Read More
  • red white and blue flag with sea stars in red section it reads "A tribute to bravery Military Personnel, Your Entry Is On Us!*" in honor of Memorial Day at The Florida Aquarium

    May 22, 2026

    A Tribute to Bravery: Free Admission for Military This Memorial Day Weekend

    TAMPA, FL – In honor of the courage, commitment, and sacrifice of our nation’s military service members, The Florida Aquarium will once again offer complimentary general admission during Memorial Day weekend as a heartfelt thank-you to those who serve and have served our country. From Saturday, May 23 through Monday, May 25, 2026, active-duty military, veterans,…

    Read More
  • baby wearing hearing aides looking at fish at The Florida Aquarium

    May 20, 2026

    The Florida Aquarium Ranked Among the Best in the Country Again

    TAMPA, FL – The Florida Aquarium has once again earned national recognition as one of the top aquariums in the country, climbing to the #7 spot in USA TODAY’s 2026 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards. The Aquarium secured a place among the nation’s top ten aquariums for another year and remains the only aquarium in Florida…

    Read More

Stay Up to Date

Want to know what’s happening below the surface? Sign up to receive our email newsletter, “The Current”, and dive into the latest news, events, and exhibit updates happening here at the Aquarium.