The Florida Aquarium Unwraps a Season of Holiday Magic with Christmas Tidings

November 6, 2026

Share Story

A sea of festive experiences, interactive entertainment, and family traditions await November 27 through January 3

TAMPA, FL (November 6, 2026) – The Florida Aquarium is bringing the holiday season to life with Christmas Tidings, taking place November 27 through January 3. Blending timeless Christmas charm with festive experiences for all ages, the Aquarium will transform into a holiday destination filled with twinkling trees, a glowing lighthouse, interactive entertainment, and opportunities to take a photo with Santa.

Families can watch underwater costume divers, meet the Aquarium’s costumed characters, get creative with holiday crafts, and enjoy up-close encounters with the animal ambassadors. It’s a chance to enjoy some favorite holiday traditions while discovering a few surprises along the way.

“The holiday season is a time when families come together and create memories that become traditions for years to come,” said Katherine Hardwick Vice President of Marketing & Communications at The Florida Aquarium. “We want Christmas Tidings to be a place where families can experience the magic of the season, enjoy something unexpected, and make memories that families will look forward to year after year.”

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD VIDEO & PHOTOS FROM LAST YEAR’S HOLIDAY EVENT

Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium

Highlights include:

🎄 Holiday décor: Twinkling trees, a glowing lighthouse, the return of the upcycled holiday tree, and new snow flurries in the Queue Garden
🎅 Photos with Santa: Holiday photo opportunities with Santa
🎭 Sparkle and Shine Decorators: Two world-class decorators, decking the halls since 1882, bring interactive entertainment to the Aquarium
🐠 Holiday underwater encounters: Costumed divers and festive characters
✉️ Hands-on activities: Recycled holiday crafts and letters to Santa stations along the guest pathway and on the Bayview Rooftop Terrace
☕ Seasonal treats: Hot chocolate and holiday specials provided by Café Seventy One
🦦 Animal encounters: Daily animal ambassador experiences

The Aquarium also will host a special Day of Discovery Christmas Tidings on December 13 from 8 to 9 a.m. Designed for individuals with sensory differences and their families, the experience will feature adjusted lighting and sound levels.

Christmas Tidings is included with general admission to The Florida Aquarium. For tickets and operating hours, click here.

For more information about The Florida Aquarium, visit flaquarium.org.