At the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, mermaids do exist. For three nights this month, the aquarium will transform into a magical grotto, decorated with whimsical mermaid magic throughout the exhibit spaces for an exciting adventure under the sea.
“Our goal every day is to inspire guests to become stewards of the ocean, future conservationists, and nature lovers. By adding a mermaid event, we are hoping to create an experience that feels magical while also delivering a meaningful message,” Ellen Alt, conservation learning & engagement specialist, says. “Mermaids act as ambassadors for the ocean and add a human-like element, allowing guests to envision their own role in caring for marine environments. It is a fun way to deliver educational information and highlight our conservation actions that help keep oceans healthy to our guests.”
“Guests will have a timed ticket to encounter mermaids and mermen swimming in the Red Sea Aquarium among the fishes, zebra sharks, and spotted eagle rays,” Karen Burns, vice president of conservation, says. “There are additional mermaid encounters throughout the aquarium, and guests are welcome to chat with the mermaids and, of course, take as many photos as they like!”
If visitors want a behind-the-scenes tour of the magic, a ticket upgrade is available for a private meet-and-greet with the diving mermaids. For additional special encounters, visitors can also meet and take photos with land mermaids, enjoy mermaid story time, and receive a mermaid makeover complete with face paint.
“We hope that guests leave this magical evening with a renewed sense of wonder at the beauty of the ocean and are inspired to make a commitment to keep it healthy and clean for all to enjoy for the future,” Burns says.
For more information, visit the website for more details. VirginiaAquarium.com
This article is a Virginia Living digital exclusive.
