ThunderBug Dives into Adventure at The Florida Aquarium for the Historic Stadium Series
February 2, 2026
Share Story
Fans watching yesterday’s NHL’s Stadium Series coverage may have seen videos of beloved Tampa Bay Lightning mascot ThunderBug exploring Tampa Bay in search of hidden treasure. As part of the excitement surrounding the NHL’s first-ever outdoor hockey game in a Florida football stadium, ThunderBug made a memorable stop at The Florida Aquarium, where his treasure hunt took him beneath the surface of one of the Aquarium’s most iconic habitats.
In behind-the-scenes video released today, ThunderBug can be seen wearing a special Lightning wetsuit and fins as he dives into The Florida Aquarium’s 500,000-gallon Coral Reefs habitat, surrounded by stingrays, sharks, and vibrant marine life as part of his Tampa Bay adventure.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD VIDEO & PHOTOS OF THUNDERBUG’S UNDERWATER ADVENTURE AT THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM
The underwater excursion was featured during Stadium Series coverage, tying ThunderBug’s treasure hunt into the weekend’s Gasparilla pirate festivities. The moment showcased the region’s unique spirit, wildlife, and sense of fun on a national stage, while shining a spotlight on Tampa Bay and highlighting how far the sport has grown in the Sunshine State.
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.