Since opening in 1981, the National Aquarium has been a world-class entertainment attraction, an economic engine for the city and state, and a dynamic resource for education. This past fall, the Inner Harbor’s premier attraction launched its 30th anniversary year—a year that will honor the Aquarium’s successful past, and celebrate its future as a leader in global conservation and aquatic health.

The yearlong celebration will engage the public through lectures, special activities and promotions, visitor extras, field actions, conservation challenges, and a special concert for conservation. Visit aqua.org/30years to learn more and sign-up for updates.

Below you’ll find a list of our upcoming Aquarium events, including Immersion Tour dates and any special community wide events. Please call 410-576-3860 for more details or pictures to accompany calendar listings.

Current Calendar: Spring/Summer 2011

Special Events

  • Fresh Thoughts: Sustainable Seafood Series The National Aquarium’s Fresh Thoughts sustainable seafood dining series not only offers a delicious evening out, it’s also a way to increase your understanding of sustainable seafood practices.  Each evening is themed around a sustainable seafood choice that is available in this region. Guests will enjoy a cocktail reception, a cooking demonstration by the guest chef, a three-course fine-dining experience executed by The Classic Catering People, and an after-hours stroll through the Aquarium. 6-9:30 p.m.; Cost: $79 members; $89 non-members; reservations required; aqua.org/freshthoughts.html.

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IMMERSION TOURS IN BALTIMORE

Visitors can dive beneath the surface with the Aquarium’s exclusive Immersion Tours! With our expert guides visitors can experience life at the Aquarium from an insider’s perspective. There is a world behind the glass that is fascinating and full of surprises. The links below will provide information and dates from our winter tours:

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DAILY ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS IN WASHINGTON, D.C.:

Lunchtime with Sharks
Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays
2:00 p.m.
Ages: All Ages
Free with Aquarium admission
Witness the feeding of the Leopard, Swell, and Horn shark collection. Plus, learn what makes the ocean’s top predators different from other fish.

Lunchtime with Piranhas
Sundays, Tuesdays, Thursdays
2:00 p.m.
Ages: All Ages
Free with Aquarium admission
Interested in the myths about piranhas? Watch as the piranhas hunt for their meal and learn more about their interlocking teeth and feeding behaviors.

Lunchtime with Alligators
Fridays
2:00 p.m.
Ages: All Ages
Free with Aquarium admission
Witness the feeding of two American alligators. Plus, learn how the aquarists use target feeding techniques to train animal behaviors.

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SPECIAL COMMUNITY EVENTS:

JUNE

30: Grade “A” Student Night (MD)

The National Aquarium’s annual event celebrating the scholarly achievements of Baltimore City and Baltimore County youth. Any student boasting 3 A’s (or equivalent of) in any marking period receives free admission. Students must be accompanied by an adult, who will also be admitted at no charge. Other family members will be admitted at a special rate. Space is limited; report cards must be presented for entry. 6 – 9 p .m.

JULY 

22: Maryland Dolphin Count 

FREE! Help Aquarium staff and volunteers record the number of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins sighted in the waters off Maryland’s coast.

30–31 Shark Weekend (DC)

FREE with Aquarium admission ! They’ve roamed the world’s oceans for millions of years; yet are still among the least understood animals. Celebrate Shark Weekend by getting up-close-and-personal with several shark species and learn from leading experts on the world’s most fascinating ocean dwellers. Visit nationalaquarium.org for details.

AUGUST

5 –7: 30th Anniversary Festival 

The National Aquarium is turning 30!  Come celebrate this huge milestone during our 3-day festival. This family-friendly multicultural event will feature a variety of entertainment including – Milkshake Trio, St. Veronica’s Youth Steel Orchestra, Mexico Vivo, the Waxter Center Steppers and more!  There will also be face painting, an Ocean Art Project, character appearances, zumba dance instruction, a Kid’s Corner, and more. The stage will be set up outside the aquarium; the Ocean Art Project will be held at the back of the pier and the Kid’s Corner will be under the tent on Pier 3. Activities taking place on the pier will be free to the general public. Any events or activities going on in the Aquarium will be free with admission.Visit aqua.org for more details.

7: Animal Enrichment Day (MD)

FREE with Aquarium admission. Like people, animals need to play, exercise and be creative each day. Join Aquarium staff to build toys for our animals. 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; visit aqua.org for details.