CONEY ISLAND, N.Y. — November 9, 2026 — This December, a new wave of winter wonder will arrive at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s New York Aquarium. Holiday Tides, the Aquarium’s inaugural winter celebration, will bring seasonal magic to the city’s only oceanfront destination with more than 4,500 aquatic animals.

The limited-time holiday experience invites guests to discover the wonders of New York’s marine wildlife while enjoying hands-on activities, animal enrichment, and seasonal delights that together mark a new holiday tradition for metro area families. The event will run December 26-31 from 11am-3pm daily.

Guests will appreciate the convenient nature of the event, which offers a full day of activities to enjoy at one’s own pace, all included with admission. Curated educational programming is designed to capture kids’ imaginations and take the stress out of holiday planning.

This year, guests can look forward to activities including:

• Aquatic Animal Enrichment: This season, aquarium animals receive their own seasonal treats! Watch to learn how enrichment encourages animals’ natural behaviors and supports their well-being.
• Ice-Carving Demonstrations: Watch skilled ice-carving artists transform massive blocks of ice into incredible creations – some of which will be used as enrichment for the animals.
• Aquatheater: Witness the bonds our sea lions have with their trainers in this interactive celebration.
• 4D Theater: Immerse yourself in the world of a new seasonally-themed movie, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 4D*.
• Storytelling & Songs: Join Wildlife Theater for wintery songs, storytelling, and puppetry.
• Seasonal Crafts: Add your creative touch to hands-on seasonal crafts.
• Seasonal Treats: Indulge in limited-time, festive food and beverage offerings.
• Photo Opportunities and Holiday Decor: Capture memories at dedicated photo ops and decked-out visual backdrops.     

As the New York Aquarium’s signature winter event, Holiday Tides joins a series of seasonal celebrations – including Ocean Shell-a-bration, Shark Party, and Ascarium – designed to help visitors connect with aquatic animals any time of year. Holiday Tides answers popular demand for wintertime enchantment at the Aquarium and cements the park’s identity as a year-round destination for all ages.

Holiday Tides is included with New York Aquarium admission and is free for WCS Members. Non-members must reserve tickets in advance; no reservations are required for Members. Visit NYAquarium.com/Holiday-Tides to explore the daily schedule of activities, view available dates, and book your visit. Follow the New York Aquarium on social media for updates and more: Facebook | Instagram | X.

*Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer™ The Rudolph Co., L.P. All elements under license to Character Arts, LLC. All rights reserved.