New Activities, Entertainment and Décor Added to The Florida Aquarium’s YuleTides Coastal Holiday Celebration

Tampa, FL (December 10, 2024) – This year’s brand-new YuleTides at The Florida Aquarium coastal holiday event is in full swing with exciting new activities, enchanting décor and unique SEAsonal experiences for the whole family. The immersive event continues to dazzle with new ways to celebrate the holidays, Tampa Bay-style.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD NEW BROADCAST-QUALITY VIDEO AND PHOTOS
OF YULETIDES AT THE FLORIDA AQUARIUM
Courtesy: The Florida Aquarium

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA
Kick off the day with Breakfast with Santa, a magical morning for all ages. Guests can savor a delicious breakfast, meet the Aquarium’s coastal Santa Claus for memorable photos, and enjoy Aquarium admission, including access to the YuleTides experience.

Dates:

• Sunday, December 15
• Saturday, December 21
• Sunday, December 22

Time: 8:00–9:30 a.m.

TICKETS

SIP AND SAIL
Set sail into the holiday spirit with the adults-only Sip and Sail event. Enjoy a 90-minute cruise aboard the Bay Spirit II with:

• Festive ugly sweater and costume contests with prizes
• Premium open bar and light appetizers
• A cozy hot chocolate station & commemorative event cup
• Live DJ

Date: December 20, 2024
Time: 5:00–8:00 p.m.

TICKETS

HOLIDAY LIGHTED BOAT PARADE

Experience Downtown Tampa’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parade aboard The Florida Aquarium’s Bay Spirit II, a 72-foot catamaran joining a flotilla of hundreds of illuminated vessels for an unforgettable evening on the water.

TICKETS Include:

• Dockside cookie decorating station
• Live performance by electric violinist LaRon Hearst
• Appetizers and a hot cocoa bar
• Complimentary premium bar (21+) and beverages for children

Date: December 21, 2024

Time: 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.

RECLAIMED BEACH TREASURES TREE
A towering holiday tree crafted from upcycled beach materials greets visitors on Channelside Drive. This eco-friendly centerpiece embodies The Florida Aquarium’s commitment to sustainability. Guests are encouraged to discover creative ways to reuse unwanted items to help keep plastic out of wildlife habitats, waterways and landfills.

SANTA’S WHARF
Meet coastal Santa Claus for a one-of-a-kind photo opportunity at Santa’s Wharf. A great opportunity to capture the most unique photo with Santa in Tampa, perfect for your annual holiday card.

Dates:

• November 29–December 1
• December 7–8, 14–15, and 21–24

Time: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

SAND SCULPTURE & OUTDOOR WATERFRONT LAWN ACTIVITIES
Embrace coastal holiday vibes with a breathtaking sand sculpture and other festive photo opportunities that are sure to help capture this special family tradition. Celebrate with games, crafts, and fun on the waterfront. (New timelapse Sand Sculpture VIDEO)

Games: Giant Jenga, Giant Connect Four & Cornhole + play area
Crafts: Create personalized holiday keepsakes, including:

• Sea Glass Art
• Seashell & Sea Star Ornaments
• Recycled Gift Bows
• Live Sand Sculpture Build: December 21 | 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

ADDITIONAL YULETIDES HIGHLIGHTS

• Coastal Tree Trail: Explore a series of uniquely decorated holiday trees inspired by Tampa Bay’s boat parade tradition.
• Live Performances: Enjoy rooftop caroling with a coastal twist from The Coralers and performances by local Hillsborough County students.
• Cookie Decorating with Mrs. Claus: Create a delicious memory and join Mrs. Claus on the rooftop in making sea star shaped cookies, complete with all the toppings. Cookie kits available for purchase.
• Iconic Lighthouse: Marvel at a 20-foot-tall lighthouse adorned with seashell garlands and seaside lanterns.

To schedule a media visit, contact Kendra Oestreich at Kendra@CatalystCG.com or (813) 944-9510.

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Contact The Florida Aquarium communications@flaquarium.org