Santa’s Post-Christmas Getaway: Relaxing in Style at The Florida Aquarium
December 26, 2024
Share Story
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
-
March 5, 2026
The Ultimate Spring Break ’26 Staycation at The Florida Aquarium
No need to pack bags or worry about flights this spring break. Families can enjoy a week of adventure, discovery, and up-close animal encounters in downtown Tampa at The Florida Aquarium. From March 14–22, the Aquarium will extend its hours and feature an expanded lineup of interactive programs, live music, and hands-on activities for all…
Read More -
February 20, 2026
Final Days to Recycle Gasparilla Beads at The Florida Aquarium
The beads have been tossed, the parades have passed, and now there’s one more way to celebrate Gasparilla season with purpose. This is the final weekend to recycle your beads through Bead-Free Bay at The Florida Aquarium. Through February 22, 2026, guests who bring in their unwanted Gasparilla beads can receive 50% off up to…
Read More -
February 19, 2026
Penguins Return to the Capitol to Highlight Storm Protection and Coral Funding Priorities
The Florida Aquarium’s beloved African penguins—Archi, Enzi, Nuru, and Pebbles—waddled through the State Capitol this week, meeting with lawmakers to help advocate for state funding to strengthen storm protection at the Aquarium’s downtown Tampa campus and sustain Florida’s coral reef restoration efforts. “These critically endangered animals are more than ambassadors for their species—they’re a reminder…
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.