Tree Lighting Ceremony with Santa Diver and Penguins Kicking Off Holiday Events at the Aquarium

By: Jenny Alvarez

Photos by Alfonso de Elias.

On November 29 Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach CA, had the annual tree lighting ceremony. The Aquarium decorated for the season, and guests could see the tree in the Great Hall come to life as the lights go on.

The Aquarium’s Holiday Treats were provided for the Animals. For the sea lions and seals, including the baby seal’s first holidays. Kaya the harbor seal was born at the Aquarium in April. He celebrates the Penguin Parade, which will take place during Aquarium Holidays from December 1 through December 23.

Every day from December 1 to 23 Aquarium guests can also see Santa Diver giving “fishmas” gifts to the animals, watch the 10:00 a.m. Penguin Parade, take photos at the holiday selfie station, witness snow fall in the Great Hall, and explore the gift stores for unique holiday shopping. Hanukkah storytelling with opportunities to play dreidel will also be presented on December 1, 2, 8, and 9.

The festivities include the annual Holiday Treats for the Animals event on the weekend of December 8-9. During this event, the sea otter exhibit will be decked out for the “sea”son with decorations and a real snowman, and visitors can watch the otters savor candy cane-shaped lobster treats. Aquarium staff will also give special gift delicacies to penguins, sea lions, and other animals. Children can enjoy holiday crafts along with appearances by Santa Diver, photo opportunities with Santa and holiday characters, and all the Aquarium holiday festivities.