Santa Jaws Resurfaces at Mote Marine This Week

SARASOTA, FL — Anyone who knows anything about Santa Claus knows the jolly old elf just can’t do it all himself. That’s why Mote Marine Laboratory’s mascot Gilly the Shark is gearing up to lend a hand ... or fin.

Gilly makes his official return as “Santa Jaws” starting this Saturday, Nov. 26. Between the hours of noon and 2 p.m. the friendly shark will don a red and white suit to help visitors to the 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway aquarium get in the holiday spirit.

According to Mote officials, Gilly has signed on to serve as Santa’s official helper shark in Sarasota through Dec. 17. In that official capacity, he’ll be available for families to take pictures and for kids to share their holiday wishes.

Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium is open 365 days a year from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission costs $19.75 for kids ages 13 and up; $18.75 for seniors age 65 and older and $14.75 for children age 4 to 12. Kids 3 and under are admitted for free.

The aquarium features a number of animal exhibits meant to be up-close and hands-on when possible. Creatures on exhibit include manatees, sea turtles, sharks, otters and more. For more information about what to expect – besides a Santa-loving shark – visit Mote online.

Photo courtesy of Mote Marine Laboratory