At Georgia Aquarium, there’s always something new beneath the surface. In 2026, guests can look forward to exciting new experiences. These range from expanded adults-only programming and the return of the immersive Glow Nights summer event to major gallery renovations.

Don’t miss your chance to experience these exciting updates. Plan your visit and be part of what’s ahead in the year to come.

A Bigger Year of Signature Events

Georgia Aquarium is revamping its lineup of signature experiences in 2026 with a refreshed series of adults-only events, inviting guests to explore the Aquarium after hours in a lively, kids-free atmosphere. Held on select nights throughout the year, these events feature fan-favorite elements like specialty cocktails, themed bites, and live entertainment—all set against the unique backdrop of the Aquarium’s galleries.

Together, these events offer a new way for guests to experience the Georgia Aquarium throughout the year as we transform into an unforgettable after-hours destination.

For a full look at upcoming events, explore the Aquarium’s 2026 event calendar in the newsroom.

Glow Nights Returns with Even More to Discover

After a successful debut, Glow Nights returns for its second summer at the Aquarium – bigger, brighter, and more immersive than before.

This unique summer experience celebrates the wonders of bioluminescence and deep-sea adaptations. Guests can enjoy glowing environments, interactive moments, and awe-inspiring performances.

New additions for 2026 include:

• Expanded light installations and glowing environments
• New live performances and entertainment experiences
• Even more immersive elements throughout the galleries

Glow Nights invites guests to explore the Aquarium in an entirely new way, surrounded by light, color, and the fascinating adaptations of deep-sea animals.

River Scout Gallery Enhancements Underway

Another major development in 2026 is the continued transformation of our River Scout gallery. This effort is part of a multi-phase enhancement of Peterson Preserve made possible through Georgia Aquarium’s partnership with Smurfit WestRock.

The first milestone of this project was completed in 2023 with the opening of a new education classroom. Phase two is now underway and will bring significant upgrades designed to enhance both animal habitats and the guest experience.

Planned improvements include:

• A brand-new Canopy Walk experience
• Touch-screen animal ID stations and interactive elements 
• A redesigned Asian small-clawed otter habitat
• Revitalized theming, signage, and updated lighting 

Construction is currently underway, with completion anticipated in summer 2026. Portions of the River Scout gallery will experience phased closures during this time to ensure the safety of both guests and animals.

These updates will expand opportunities for guests to learn about freshwater ecosystems while creating more engaging spaces for exploration and discovery.

A Fresh Take on a Holiday Tradition

The Georgia Aquarium is also preparing an exciting refresh of its holiday seasonal celebration, bringing new energy and experiences to one of the Aquarium’s most beloved times of year.

While details will be revealed closer to the season, guests can expect reimagined festive elements, enhanced décor, and new immersive moments designed to make the holidays at the Aquarium even more magical.

The refreshed activation will build on the traditions guests have come to love while introducing new surprises that celebrate the wonder of the ocean during the most festive time of the year.

Stay tuned for more details as the holiday season approaches!

A Year of Discovery Ahead

From glowing summer spectacles to expanded programming and meaningful gallery upgrades, 2026 promises to be an exciting year at Georgia Aquarium. Guests can look forward to even more opportunities to connect with the ocean and the incredible animals that inhabit it.