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

  • Sloth on a perch while two female employees talk to guests with Sea to Shining Sea banner in the background

    July 3, 2026

    The Florida Aquarium Offers a Cool, Dry Destination for the Fourth of July Weekend

    TAMPA, FL – Rain may change outdoor Fourth of July plans across Tampa Bay, but families can still celebrate Independence Day indoors at The Florida Aquarium, where the Sea to Shining Sea celebration continues through Sunday with patriotic entertainment, animal encounters, and the debut of two new ambassador skunks. New video from Friday’s festivities shows…

    Read More
  • Ginger and Juniper, two skunks eating 4th of July ice treat at The Florida Aquarium

    July 1, 2026

    Meet Ginger and Juniper: The Florida Aquarium’s New Ambassador Skunks Debut During All-American Weekend

    TAMPA, FL  – Just in time for Independence Day weekend, The Florida Aquarium is introducing its newest animal ambassadors: Ginger and Juniper, two curious striped skunk sisters making their debut during the Aquarium’s “Sea to Shining Sea” All-American Weekend celebration July 3–5. These sisters bring their skunk smarts and playful personalities to the Aquarium’s animal…

    Read More
  • Two female employees from The Florida Aquarium's Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center release green sea turtle "Purple" back to the Gulf

    June 27, 2026

    The Florida Aquarium Returns Rehabilitated Green Sea Turtle to the Gulf

    ANNA MARIA ISLAND, FL – A juvenile green sea turtle named Purple returned to the Gulf on Friday after months of rehabilitation at The Florida Aquarium following a cold-stunning event. **CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD VIDEO, SOUND, AND PHOTOS OF PURPLE** Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium Purple was transferred to The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center…

    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.