YuleTides Returns for Its Second Year of Coastal Holiday Magic

November 10, 2025

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The Florida Aquarium invites guests to dive into the magic of the holidays as YuleTides presented by GEICO returns November 28 through January 4 (closed Christmas Day). This immersive holiday celebration transforms the Aquarium into a dazzling coastal winter wonderland, where twinkling lights, festive décor, and seaside Santa visits bring the spirit of the season to life.

Guests will be surrounded by the sights, sounds, and sparkle of the holidays while discovering the beauty of marine life and ocean conservation. Throughout the Aquarium, habitats and exhibits will shimmer with holiday cheer, blending the warmth of coastal traditions from around the world with the wonder of the underwater world.

“There’s a calm, joyful energy that fills the Aquarium during YuleTides,” said Pete Colangelo, vice president of experience design and planning at The Florida Aquarium. “It’s a chance to slow down, take in the lights, and enjoy the season in a setting unlike anywhere else in Tampa Bay. Even in its second year, YuleTides is quickly becoming a favorite holiday tradition, an experience that brings people together and captures the spirit of the season.”

**CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD BROADCAST-QUALITY VIDEO &
PHOTOS OF YULETIDES**
Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium

Discover Seasonal Charm in Every Corner
Every moment at YuleTides offers something new to explore from enchanting decorations to interactive activities that make the season shine.

• Explore serene habitats and exhibits dressed in their holiday best.
• Meet Santa at his Winter Wharf, where he dons a coastal-inspired suit perfect for seaside selfies.
• Enjoy festive flavors and seasonal treats at Café Seventy One.
• Shop for ocean-inspired treasures and unique keepsakes in the gift shop.
• Stroll by coastal-inspired trees illuminated by twinkling lights and festive music.

Experience the Magic of Coastal Traditions
YuleTides celebrates the holidays with a vibrant blend of creativity, community, and conservation. Highlights include:

• A 28-foot-tall upcycled tree adorned with sea life ornaments crafted from recycled Gasparilla beads.
• A glowing 20-foot-tall lighthouse in the lobby and a dazzling ceiling of lanterns and ornaments.
• Winter-themed games and activities that bring a feeling of the Arctic to sunny Tampa.
• Festive arts & crafts, an interactive scavenger hunt, and ornament decorating with Mrs. Claus.
• Letters to Santa and appearances by beloved characters Rocky, Tango, and Xochi in their holiday best.
• Costumed divers, animal encounters, and musical entertainment from the “Coralers” and local school music groups on the YuleTides Stage.
• Signature food and beverage offerings that blend holiday favorites with a coastal twist, plus a hot chocolate bar with customizable toppings.

**Members of the media are invited to cover YuleTides. Please RSVP to Sabrina@CatalystCG.com.**

YuleTides is included with general admission. Celebrate the season surrounded by shimmering lights, coastal charm, and the incredible marine life that makes The Florida Aquarium one of Tampa Bay’s most unique holiday destinations. For more information about YuleTides at The Florida Aquarium and to plan your visit, click here.