Holiday Happenings At Maritime Aquarium In Norwalk Announced

NORWALK, CT — The Maritime Aquarium in Norwalk invites guests to celebrate the season with a splash of holiday cheer and enjoy a number of holiday events at the aquarium in November and December.

According to a news release provided by the aquarium, the Maritime Aquarium is the perfect place to make joyful memories and discover the spirit of the season as festive fun meets underwater wonder.

The following list of holiday events and descriptions was provided by the Maritime Aquarium:

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D

Experience the magic of the holidays in a whole new way with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D, now showing at the aquarium. This immersive 10-minute adaptation of the beloved television classic brings Rudolph’s journey to life with dazzling visuals and sensory effects, as he meets new friends and escapes the Abominable Snow Monster. Join him on his adventure to save Christmas through January 4.

Member Appreciation Morning (Members Only)

Rise and shine for our Member Appreciation Morning on Friday, November 28 from 8–10 a.m. Skip the crowds and enjoy sweet treats from Elm Street Diner, free 4D movies, extra-deep Gift Shop discounts, and a special thank-you gift. Plus, for one day only, the aquarium is upgrading everyone to Family Plus-level perks, so bring more friends and family along for the fun.

Shark Diving Santa

Every Saturday and Sunday from December 6 through December 21 at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., watch Santa make a splash as he dives into the Ocean Beyond the Sound exhibit and swims alongside sand tiger sharks! It’s an unforgettable holiday tradition guests won’t want to miss. Limited extra dives will take place on December 23, 24, and 26.

Breakfast with Santa (Members Only)

On Saturday, December 6 from 8–10 a.m., members can start their day in festive style at the Maritime Aquarium’s annual Breakfast with Santa. Guests will enjoy a breakfast buffet, holiday crafts, and sweet treats before meeting Santa Claus for memorable photos. The morning also includes a showing of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D in the aquarium’s theater. Pajamas or festive holiday attire are encouraged for this cheerful celebration.

Holiday Sensory-Friendly Evening

On Tuesday, December 9 from 5–7 p.m., the Maritime Aquarium will transform into a serene winter wonderland for guests with sensory-processing differences. All galleries will sparkle with holiday décor while lights are dimmed, music softened, and extra sounds turned off for a peaceful, sensory-friendly experience. The evening includes a special screening of the holiday favorite Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D in the aquarium’s theater but presented with lowered sound, brighter lights, and no sensory effects for maximum comfort. There is also an optional add-on visit with Santa Claus in a calm area of the aquarium.

Flurry Zone! An Indoor Snow Experience

Forget the forecast — the Maritime Aquarium is making it snow every single day in December! Step into the Flurry Zone, where indoor snowstorms swirl through Newman’s Own Hall every hour on the hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each flurry lasts five minutes, which is just enough time for a twirl in the sparkling snowfall. No boots, no shovels, just pure holiday fun.

Elf Power Virtual Reality Experience

Soar over snow-capped mountains in Santa’s turbocharged sleigh on a heartwarming quest to help a child believe in the magic of Christmas again. Feel the rush of winter winds and holiday cheer as you zip through dazzling landscapes. With your Elf Power, surprises await at every turn. Who will you meet on this magical ride? There’s only one way to find out!

Noon Year’s Eve Celebration

On December 31 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., families with young children are invited to join the Maritime Aquarium’s Noon Year’s Eve Celebration — a festive countdown filled with fun and flair. Enjoy lively music, creative crafts, and colorful face painting, as we welcome the new year a little early.

Gift the Gift of Wonder

For those who already have everything, an annual membership to the Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk is a gift that keeps giving all year long. Members enjoy unlimited admission, discounted 4D Theater tickets, exclusive members-only events, and more. Looking for flexibility? A Maritime Aquarium gift certificate makes waves, too.

The Maritime Aquarium is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thanksgiving Eve (Nov. 26) and Christmas Eve (Dec. 24) when the aquarium closes at 3 p.m. The aquarium is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

More information is available at www.maritimeaquarium.org.