Activities at the Aquarium change with the season. The list below highlights special observations and events for spring and summer 2009. Check the interactive calendar for daily choices, or download the PDF for the full lineup of fun.

Summer and Fall 2009
Special Events and Important Dates

Nov. 7 - Free fishing clinic
Local expert Bryan Goodwin discusses inshore light tackle fishing in an afternoon fishing clinic, free with admission or membership, 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. For more information, contact Educator Todd Spangler at ext. 288

Nov. 11 - Veterans Day
The three North Carolina Aquariums offer free admission to all visitors on Wednesday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day; open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Nov. 26 - Thanksgiving Day
The Aquarium is closed on Thursday, but open the usual hours - 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. - throughout the rest of the holiday weekend.

Dec. 11 - Dinner with Santa
SORRY!  THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT. Tell Santa your wishes and dine with the fishes at this special evening for families and children. Tickets are $15 per person for ages 3 and up; no charge for children 2 and under. Advance registration is required and tickets are limited. Please call during business hours, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dec. 12 - Open House and Food Drive
Do a good deed while you enjoy the Aquarium and visit with Santa among the exhibits. One non-perishable food item per person is accepted in lieu of regular admission fees on Saturday, Dec. 12. The food goes to Martha’s Mission Cupboard, a local food pantry for those in need.

Dec. 28-30 - Aquatic Adventurers Winter Camp
Children in second and third grades enjoy outdoor activities, discovery labs, crafts, videos, behind-the-scenes action and more. 8:30 a.m. - 2:45 p.m. each day. $100 per child, advance registration required.

Dec. 25 - The Aquarium is closed on Friday, Dec. 25, and on Friday, Jan. 1, but otherwise the Aquarium and Gift Shop are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. throughout the holiday season.

Jan. 1, 2010 - The Aquarium is closed on Friday, Jan. 1.

Jan. 18, 2010 - The Aquarium offers free admission to all visitors on the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday; open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Jan. 18-20 - Coastal Explorers Winter Camp
Children in fourth and fifth grades enjoy outdoor activities, discovery labs, crafts, videos, behind-the-scenes action and more. 8:30 a.m. - 2:45 p.m. each day. $100 per child, advance registration required.