The Florida Aquarium Offers a Cool, Dry Destination for the Fourth of July Weekend
July 3, 2026
Share Story
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 patriotic divers, themed animal enrichment, costumed characters, family entertainment, and Ginger and Juniper, two striped skunk sisters making their public debut during the holiday celebration.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD NEW VIDEO & PHOTOS
Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium
As families adjust their holiday plans around the weather, The Florida Aquarium offers a memorable way to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary while connecting with amazing animals and supporting conservation.
In honor of America’s 250th birthday, guests who purchase tickets at the Aquarium’s ticket window after 2:50 p.m. through July 5 receive 25% off admission. Visitors can also leave a living legacy by donating $25 to support the Aquarium’s goal of planting 250 mangroves beginning on World Mangrove Day, July 26.
Among the highlights of the weekend are Ginger and Juniper, two curious striped skunk sisters born in September 2025 who recently joined The Florida Aquarium from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo. They are making their first appearances as part of the Aquarium’s animal ambassador program, helping guests learn about one of North America’s most misunderstood native species.
As part of the holiday celebration, Ginger and Juniper sampled patriotic American flag-shaped frozen treats made with blueberries, pears, and red apples, encouraging their natural foraging behaviors while providing mental stimulation.
Throughout the holiday weekend, guests can enjoy:
- Patriotic décor throughout the Aquarium
- Animal ambassador appearances at 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 2:30 p.m.
- Character meet-and-greets
- “Dive into Adventure” performances at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m.
- Holiday-themed stilt walkers
- Costumed divers dressed as Lady Liberty, Uncle Sam, Captain America, and a Bald Eagle
- Holiday food and beverages, festive desserts, and themed treats
- Face painting and themed caricatures
- Exclusive America 250-themed merchandise
After exploring the Aquarium with extended hours until 6 p.m., visitors can make a day of it by enjoying downtown Tampa’s Liberty by the Bay family-friendly waterfront celebration. To plan a visit, purchase tickets, or learn more, visit flaquarium.org.
The Latest from The Florida Aquarium
-
August 13, 2026
The Florida Aquarium Celebrates 813 Day with Animal Enrichment, Special Deals, and Community Conservation Fundraiser
Eight African penguins exploring the Shark Reef. One double yellow-headed parrot soaring. Three playful North American river otters spinning for treats. Together, they’re helping The Florida Aquarium kick off Tampa’s favorite hometown holiday—813 Day—with animal enrichment inspired by the city’s iconic area code
Read More -
August 10, 2026
Four Rehabilitated Sea Turtles Head Back to the Ocean Tuesday
Apollo Beach, FL – After months of intensive rehabilitation and veterinary care, four juvenile green sea turtles treated at The Florida Aquarium’s Sea Turtle Rehabilitation Center will return to the Atlantic Ocean on Tuesday, August 11, giving the turtles a second chance at life in the wild. Dark Blue Yellow, Pink, Black, and Light Blue…
Read More -
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
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.