Summer Camp H2O
Summer Camp H2O
July 27–July 31
Camp H2O Parent Guardian Guide 2026
Georgia Aquarium’s 2026 Event Calendar
2026 at Georgia Aquarium: One Incredible Year of Events
Get ready for a year packed with unforgettable moments at Georgia Aquarium. Our 2026 event calendar features elevated adults-only experiences, refreshed after-hours parties, and fan-favorite seasonal events. Each is designed to offer new ways to connect and explore the Aquarium like never before. Whether you’re planning a night out, family adventure, or holiday celebration, something exciting is always waiting beneath the surface.
Seasonal Activations
Glow Nights – Summer 2026
Summer comes alive with Glow Nights and our bioluminescence exhibit. Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening event that highlights the dazzling bioluminescence of marine life, including corals and jellies. Through blacklight theatrics and glowing décor, the Aquarium transforms into an immersive, glowing wonderland for all ages. Guests become part of the experience with interactive elements like glow-in-the-dark temporary tattoos, audience participation, and live performances.
Glow Nights pairs perfectly with the bioluminescence exhibit, where guests can experience bioluminescence in action as animals light up in response to motion, sound, and air. Access included with Aqua Pass.
Haunted Seas – Fall 2026
Get ready for spooky fun all October with Haunted Seas at Georgia Aquarium. This seasonal Halloween celebration features costumed characters, trick-or-treating throughout the Aquarium, themed animal presentations, and plenty of festive surprises. It’s the perfect way for families to celebrate the season and get into the spooky spirit together. Access included with Aqua Pass.
Holidays at Georgia Aquarium – Winter 2026
From November through January, celebrate the season with Holidays at Georgia Aquarium. Stroll through festive holiday lights, gather for a daily tree lighting, and snap a photo with Santa himself. It’s a magical time to visit, filled with seasonal cheer and unforgettable moments for the whole family. Access included with Aqua Pass.
Adults Only Events
Sips Under the Sea: Valentine’s Day
February 13, 2026
Celebrate Valentine’s Day with an adults-only night at Georgia Aquarium during Sips Under the Sea: Valentine’s Day. On Friday, February 13, 2026, from 7–10 p.m., enjoy specialty cocktails, themed bites, and live entertainment inspired by the season of love—all set against the stunning after-hours backdrop of the Aquarium. Whether you’re celebrating with a partner or planning a fun night out with friends, it’s a memorable way to toast the occasion.
Glow Nights After Hours
June 5, July 10, & August 7, 2026
Experience Glow Nights after hours during this adults-only evening at Georgia Aquarium. On Friday, June 5, June 10, and August 7, 2026, from 7–10 p.m., explore the Aquarium during a glowing, immersive night featuring bioluminescent-inspired lighting, themed cocktails, and live entertainment. As part of the summer Glow Nights experience, this event offers a vibrant nightlife twist on our summer celebration.
Haunted Seas After Hours
October 16 & 30, 2026
Celebrate Halloween after hours with this adults-only edition of Haunted Seas at Georgia Aquarium. On Friday, October 16, and October 30, 2026, from 7–10 p.m., enjoy spooky-themed cocktails, live entertainment, and an immersive Halloween atmosphere throughout the Aquarium. As part of our seasonal Haunted Seas experience, this experience delivers a thrilling, grown-up take on a fan-favorite fall tradition.
WinterTide After Hours
November 20 & December 18, 2026
Celebrate the season after hours with this adults-only edition of Holidays at Georgia Aquarium. On Friday, November 20 and Friday, December 18, 2026, from 7–10 p.m., enjoy festive-themed cocktails, live entertainment, and a holiday atmosphere throughout the Aquarium. As part of our seasonal Holidays at Georgia Aquarium experience, this event is the perfect way to enjoy the magic of the season without the kids.
Fundraising Events
Georgia Aquarium’s 5k Race – March 7, 2026
Get ready to lace up your sneakers and join Georgia Aquarium’s 5K Walk/Run, returning for its ninth exciting year! This Peachtree Qualifier 3.1-mile course takes participants on a quick “out and back” journey through some of downtown Atlanta’s most iconic landmarks. Open to individuals aged eight and up, it’s perfect for runners, joggers, and walkers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re tackling your first 5K, training for the Peachtree Road Race, or just looking to stay active, every step you take supports aquatic animal conservation – plus, with our virtual option, you can participate from anywhere and make an impact for the ocean, even from your own neighborhood. Every stride helps fund Georgia Aquarium’s research and conservation efforts locally and globally.
Aqua Vino – September 18, 2026
Indulge in an evening of fine wine and culinary delights at Aqua Vino, Georgia Aquarium’s premier annual food and wine fundraiser. On Friday, September 18, 2026, from 6:30–10 p.m., enjoy expertly curated wine pairings, gourmet food stations, and a silent auction, all while exploring the Aquarium after hours. Guests will also have the opportunity to mingle with Aquarium experts and experience the exhibits in a whole new way. Proceeds from Aqua Vino directly support Georgia Aquarium’s ocean research, rescue, and conservation efforts.
New Year’s Eve – December 31, 2026
Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at Georgia Aquarium’s exclusive VIP after-hours event. On Thursday, December 31, 2026, enjoy access to the galleries, a live DJ and dance floor, gourmet cuisine by Wolfgang Puck Catering, and a premium open bar. Ring in the midnight countdown surrounded by stunning aquatic views, all while supporting a great cause. Proceeds from this event benefit Georgia Aquarium’s ocean research, rescue, and conservation programs.
Plan Your Visit
Georgia Aquarium’s 2026 calendar is packed with unforgettable experiences for every season. From the dazzling Glow Nights bioluminescence exhibit to the spooky Haunted Seas, festive family-friendly holiday celebrations, and adults-only parties, there’s something new to explore and enjoy all year long. Signature fundraising events, such as Aqua Vino and our New Year’s Eve celebration, also provide guests with the opportunity to support vital ocean research, rescue, and conservation efforts while enjoying an exceptional night out.
Don’t forget to snag your Aqua Pass to enjoy unlimited* visits throughout 2026 (blackout dates apply), with access to general seating for dolphin and sea lion presentations and the seasonal activations above—all while helping support ocean conservation. For details, dates, and tickets, visit our official Events Calendar.
Plan your year of adventure with Georgia Aquarium!
Big Window to Big Screen
Lights, camera… whale sharks? Over the past twenty years, Georgia Aquarium has become an unexpected star on screens big and small, appearing in everything from Pitch Perfect 3 and Cobra Kai to ESPN features and even having our own show on Animal Planet. But what draws so many productions to film beneath our roof—and sometimes beneath the surface? Let’s dive into the productions that’ve chosen the Aquarium as their backdrop, exploring what it takes to capture shots underwater and revealing why the Aquarium has become one of the coolest—and most versatile—filming locations.
Filming at Georgia Aquarium
What makes Georgia Aquarium such a sought-after filming location? For starters, our stars aren’t actors—they’re some of the ocean’s most extraordinary animals. Productions know they can count on us for guaranteed access to species that are nearly impossible to capture in the wild. But the magic doesn’t stop at our habitats. Behind the scenes, the Aquarium offers a maze of fascinating, camera-ready spaces. From ballroom areas to filtration rooms, even research labs—that provide authenticity and unexpected visual interest.
On the logistical side, we’re built for production. Our expansive footprint and open layout make it easy for film crews of all sizes to move equipment, stage scenes, and adjust on the fly. Most shoots take place before we open or after we close to guests, and every project is supported by our dedicated internal film and production team. Combine all that with our location in Atlanta, the “Hollywood of the South,” home to major studios like Trilith and Tyler Perry Studios, and it’s no surprise that Georgia Aquarium has become a go-to destination for film and TV. The industry’s impact on our state is immense, and we’re proud to play a role in supporting and showcasing Georgia’s booming production community.
Did You Know This Was Filmed Here?
If you’ve visited the Aquarium, you’ve undoubtedly stood in front of our famous Ocean Voyager viewing window. At 23 feet tall, 61 feet wide, it’s one of the largest single viewing windows in the world—and one of the most iconic filming backdrops you’ll find anywhere. Maybe you’ve spotted it in a favorite TV show, movie, or even on your local news. Over the years, countless productions have transformed this massive window—and many other spaces throughout the Aquarium—into iconic on-screen moments.
Here are just a few of the standout features you might recognize:
- The Last Song
- Alvin and the Chipmunks: Road Chip
- The Change-Up
- Pitch Perfect 3
- What to Expect When You’re Expecting
- Dynasty (TV)
- Cobra Kai (TV)
- After
- The Resident (TV)
- Mastodon – Livestream Concert
- Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin (TV)
- The Aquarium (TV)
- Shark Week (TV)
- ESPN – multiple filmings for college and NFL
Just to name a few!
Catch Us On Your Screen
From prominent films to behind-the-scenes shots, every production that chooses Georgia Aquarium helps share the wonder of our animals with audiences far beyond our walls. Whether it’s capturing one of our many unique animals, highlighting our research, or using our one-of-a-kind spaces as a cinematic backdrop, we’re proud to play a role in bringing these stories to life. As Atlanta’s film industry continues to grow, we look forward to welcoming even more creators, crews, and cameras—and to showing the world why there’s truly no place to film quite like Georgia Aquarium.
Twenty Years Of Guest Experiences
Georgia Aquarium opened in 2005 with a dream of bringing people closer to the magic of our ocean. What we didn’t expect was how deeply our guests would shape our story in return. As we celebrate 20 years, we’re reminded that our story is truly your story.
For the past twenty years, Georgia Aquarium has been more than a place to see the wonders of the ocean—it’s been a place where memories are made, families come together, and inspiration comes to life. As we celebrate our 20th anniversary, we’re sharing some of the stories that have shaped us: every visit, every smile, every moment of awe has played a part in defining who we are today. This is a celebration of you and the memories you’ve shared with us.
✈️ All the Way From Sydney, Australia!
“My favourite memory was coming all the way from Sydney, Australia, to go swimming with the whale sharks. I really enjoyed swimming with them and all of the other amazing creatures. When I first saw the whale sharks, I was in awe, I loved every moment, and I would come back in a heartbeat to do it again.” – Isabella
💍 A Love as Deep as the Ocean
“I proposed to my wife in front of Ocean Voyager in 2019! We then went back in 2023 to celebrate our third wedding anniversary.” – Jace
📸 #1 On The Bucket List
“Whale sharks are my favorite, and visiting the aquarium has been number 1 on my bucket list since before I can remember! I spent my 31st birthday here with my family, and it was the most incredible experience of my life. Before I walked into Ocean Voyager, I was flooded with so many emotions and couldn’t believe I was about to see an actual whale shark. We spent the entire day there from open to close. My mom also surprised me with the Beyond the Seas tour, where we were able to catch the whale sharks feeding. I was in tears the entire time and most of the day! I live in Florida and have been planning my trip back and watching the live feed almost every day as well! I know it’s not that great of a story, but it just was such a meaningful adventure that I will always cherish and never forget!” – Morgan
🐠 Fish And Forever Friends
“I met my online best friend (now irl bff of 6 years) back in 2019 at the aquarium. It was our first time ever meeting, and it’s a memory I’ll never forget.” – Maddie
🤿 Memories That Inspire
“We visited from Illinois this summer, and my boys were in awe! All the staff were so kind and knowledgeable – they stopped and talked to my kids about the tanks, fish, and divers! It was amazing. Our visit sparked a love of marine life and oceans. We frequently check out books at the library about sea animals and ocean life.” – Taylor
🥇 From First Trip to First Place
“My visit to the Georgia Aquarium was one of the best memories I could ever ask for. I am a zoo and conservation science major in Ohio, specializing in marine conservation. I had been asking for a long time to go to Georgia and experience the whale sharks when my dad surprised me with a father-daughter trip. Getting to experience not only all the incredible wonders of the ocean, but also being up close to a whale shark, was unforgettable. Watching the target training with the sharks reminded me of my education and research. To top it off, I got to run the annual 5k and won first female!” – Sarah
🌎 Favorite Place on Earth
“Meeting the sea lions was honestly one of the best days of my life! Best birthday gift ever! Georgia Aquarium is hands down my favorite place on planet Earth!” – Briana
🐋 An Adventure as Big as a Whale Shark
“I have felt a connection to whale sharks ever since I was little. Being from Indiana, I have never had the opportunity to see a whale shark, and I had to experience their beauty through pictures and videos on social media. In March, I visited the Georgia Aquarium with my mom, and we had the most amazing, eye-opening experience. We even went two days in a row; we knew one day would not have been enough! The Georgia Aquarium is so much more than just whale sharks and manta rays. All of the other unique animals and fish that call the Georgia Aquarium home were amazing to spectate. I considered myself to be a whale shark know-it-all and still learned so much from the amazing staff and postage around the enclosures. Thank you, Georgia Aquarium, for all you do for the beautiful creatures here on Earth!” – Lila
🪸 Where Coral Sparked a Calling
“During my visit to the Georgia Aquarium last summer, I had a transformative experience. At that time, I was still undecided about my college major, but my passion for ocean-related topics was clear. As I captured photos of the breathtaking corals and fish, I found myself truly inspired. This visit has sparked my interest in studying coral reefs and exploring ways to improve their environment.” – Laila
🫶 A Splash of ‘I Do’
“My favourite memory at Georgia Aquarium is my wedding day! The Aquarium was closed due to a water main bursting (1 June 2024), and we thought our elopement would be cancelled. The Aquarium let us in despite it being closed. The staff made it the most amazing day.” – Jordan
🐾 A Paw-sitive Experience
“I am a student at the University of Georgia and a volunteer with the Guide Dog Foundation, an organization that trains and places guide dogs around the country through the help of volunteers. Through Dawgs raising Dogs, I have had the opportunity to work with so many pups in training, including Bonnie. It’s a bit of a tradition to take the dogs to the Georgia Aquarium before they head up to New York for their formal training, and this summer I accompanied Bonnie, along with her raiser Eva Grace, on her trip to see the fishes! During our visit, Bonnie had the most incredible encounter with a sea lion, and they became fast friends. It was so incredible to get to see her interact with the pinniped, and to show her all the amazing things the Aquarium has to offer.” – Lily
💙 A Family Tradition
“Our story with Georgia Aquarium began back in early 2022. My fiancé (now husband) and I were visiting Georgia to decide if we wanted to make this beautiful state our new home. The very first place we visited was Georgia Aquarium, and what an unforgettable experience it was! We were instantly in awe of the exhibits, the incredible animals, and the joy that filled the space. That visit sealed the deal for us. Georgia was where we wanted to be.
Fast forward a few years, and here we are: married, settled in Georgia, and parents to a wonderful one-year-old who already shares our love for the Aquarium. We became members, and visiting has become one of our favorite family traditions. Our son’s face lights up every time he sees the amazing exhibits, especially the sharks! It’s such a magical experience watching him discover the underwater world for the first time. Every visit brings something new, whether it’s sharing laughs, pointing out our favorite creatures, or watching family and friends experience the wonder for themselves when they come to visit. Georgia Aquarium has become more than just a destination for us; it’s been part of our journey, our memories, and our family’s story. Thank you, Georgia Aquarium, for the countless smiles, conversations, and unforgettable moments you’ve given us. Here’s to 20 incredible years of inspiring wonder, and to many more ahead! Happy 20th Anniversary!” – The Johnson Family
The stories shared here are just a glimpse into the magic that has unfolded inside our walls over the past twenty years. Each one is a gift that inspires us to dream even bigger for the future. Thank you for sharing your moments, your milestones, and your memories with us. Georgia Aquarium wouldn’t be what it is without you.
As we look ahead to the next chapter, we carry each of these stories with us. They remind us why we do what we do, and who we do it for. Thank you for twenty years of wonder, connection, and shared moments beneath the waves. Here’s to celebrating twenty years—and to all the stories still to come.