TAMPA – Families can enjoy a patriotic experience as The Florida Aquarium hosts “Sea to Shining Sea.”
The three-day Fourth of July event will feature patriotic divers, special animal encounters, family entertainment and a chance to leave a conservation legacy under one roof.
“As America commemorates its 250th anniversary, we’re proud to provide a patriotic experience that unites us around animals, nature and fun,” said Roger Germann, president and CEO of The Florida Aquarium. “While our Sea to Shining Sea celebration runs throughout the summer, guests visiting over the holiday weekend will enjoy additional animal encounters, family-friendly entertainment and never-before-offered opportunities that bring our community together to celebrate our nation’s historic birthday.”
In honor of America’s 250th anniversary, guests who buy tickets at the Aquarium’s ticket window after 2:50 p.m. each day of the celebration (July 3 to 5) will receive 25% off admission.
Throughout the three-day event, guests can experience:
- 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 making special underwater appearances dressed as Lady Liberty, Uncle • Sam, Captain America and a Bald Eagle
- Holiday food and beverages, including picnic plates with hamburger or hot dog, watermelon slice and potato salad, themed drinks, festive desserts and candy jars at Café Seventy One
- Themed caricatures and face painting by Goofy Faces
- Commemorative photo frames from Photogenic
- Exclusive America 250-themed merchandise in the aquarium’s gift shop
Guests can also help leave a living legacy for future generations by donating $25 to support the aquarium’s goal of planting 250 mangroves on World Mangrove Day, July 26. Guests can also arrange behind-the-scenes experiences from close-up encounters with stingrays to a Wild Dolphin cruise and the SeaTREK underwater walking adventure.
The Sea to Shining Sea celebration continues through Aug. 9. Guests can still experience patriotic décor, the popular “Dive into Adventure” show and extended hours.
On the web: flaquarium.org
