Make a splash this holiday SEAson at the South Carolina Aquarium! From Santa visits and diving elves to a 12 Rays of FISHmas scavenger hunt and festive programming, there’s cheer to be found around every corner beginning November 28!
Santa at the Aquarium
Forget the days of yore where we queued in a mall, and reserve your time to meet Santa in our Great Hall! This year, Santa is spending his weekends at the Aquarium, and he’s excited to meet everyone on the Nice List. Guests will have the opportunity to talk to Santa and pose for a keepsake photo.
General admission tickets or member reservations are required to participate in Santa Sundays. No purchase is required to meet Santa once inside.
Meet Santa at the Aquarium from 10 a.m.–2 p.m. on the following dates: 11/29, 11/30, 12/6, 12/7, 12/13, 12/14, 12/19, 12/20, 12/21, 12/22 and 12/23
Dive Into Holiday Fun
A daily dive show is a must for your holiday visit to the Aquarium! Discover the magic of our Great Ocean Tank during an interactive program featuring an underwater elf on the (continental) shelf! Learn about how we care for our animals, how you can give a gift to wildlife by being conservation-minded and snap a selfie with our diver after the show.
Feed the RAYndeer
They may not look like Rudolph and his friends, but you’ll love seeing (and gently touching) our cownose RAYndeer in The Shallows! This touch tank experience is included with Aquarium admission, with the opportunity to hand feed these animals by purchasing a feeding voucher.
Vouchers can be purchased at Admissions or the Information Desk; 10:15 a.m.–4 p.m., while supplies last.
Holly Jolly Activities
As you wander through our galleries full of merriment, be on the lookout for a special red mailbox labeled “North Pole.” Once you find it, drop your letter to Santa inside, and we’ll be sure it gets to him swiftly! You can also put your observation skills to the test as you search for the 12 Rays of Fishmas throughout the Aquarium. Find all 12 to earn a prize!
(Virtually) Take Flight on a Holiday Adventure
Soar into the holiday spirit with a limited-time showing of “Elf Power” in our Undersea Explorer Virtual Reality Experience. Discover the true meaning of Christmas as you fly by snow-capped mountains in Santa’s jet-powered sleigh in search of a child who needs to believe again. And the magic doesn’t end there – you never know who you’ll meet, thanks to your Elf Power! Undersea Explorer tickets can be purchased at the VR experience location on the second floor of the Aquarium. “Elf Power” will be available from 11/19–1/4.
Nightlife and New Year’s Eve
Looking for a bright new way to celebrate this year? Visit us on select evenings through December for Aquarium Aglow! This dazzling holiday light spectacular features larger-than-life installations, festive photo ops and the most unique Santa encounter in Charleston! Those looking for even more can snag tickets to our family friendly party, New Year’s Eve at Aquarium Aglow!
Gifts That Give Back
Make holiday shopping easy this year with our Gifts That Give Back! You’ll find something for everyone on your list in our gift guide, and portions from each purchase go directly back to the Aquarium. This means you can make a difference supporting our efforts in animal care, education and conservation, all while making your loved one smile!