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Aquarium Aglow
Charleston, SC
Aquarium transformed by dazzling holiday lights and Scuba Claus.
About
Step into a dazzling underwater wonderland as the South Carolina Aquarium transforms into Aquarium Aglow! Experience the magic of the holiday season after dark, with thousands of lights illuminating the galleries and festive decor creating an enchanting atmosphere. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with unique photo opportunities and enjoy delicious refreshments available for purchase. Don't miss the special appearance of Scuba Claus diving nightly in the Great Ocean Tank!
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, holiday enthusiasts
Vibe
Magical, festive, enchanting
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
Mid-Range
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
15% off early bird pricing available through October 31. Members save more (20% off Aglow tickets).
Duration
Evening event
Ages
All ages welcome (family-friendly New Year's Eve)
Schedule
Opening November 21. Dates include: Nov 21-23, Nov 28-30, Dec 4-7, Dec 11-14, Dec 17-23, Dec 26-30. New Year's Eve event also available.
Featured Performers
- Scuba Claus
Organizer
South Carolina Aquarium
Practical Information
Parking
The most convenient parking for Aquarium guests is a city-operated parking garage located at 24 Calhoun Street, adjacent to Liberty Square and their campus. There is also metered parking on streets surrounding the Aquarium. Both of these options are pay-to-park and are not operated by the Aquarium; the parking garage accepts credit cards only.
Accessibility
Increase Text, Decrease Text, Grayscale, High Contrast, Negative Contrast, Light Background, Links Underline, Readable Font, Reset.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Festive fare and refreshments available for purchase, with options for 21+ crowd.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Purchase tickets in advance, especially if you plan to attend during peak dates or the New Year's Eve celebration, to secure your spot and potentially take advantage of early bird pricing.
- Arrive early to maximize your experience, as the event is held after regular aquarium hours and offers a unique evening ambiance.
- Check the aquarium's website for the most up-to-date schedule for Scuba Claus appearances to ensure you don't miss his dives.
- Consider the New Year's Eve event for a family-friendly celebration that includes music and a ball drop, offering a festive way to ring in the new year before bedtime.
- Take advantage of the parking garage at 24 Calhoun Street for convenient access, and be aware that it accepts credit cards only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the dates and times for Aquarium Aglow?
Aquarium Aglow typically opens in late November and runs on select dates through late December, including a special New Year's Eve event. Specific dates and times can be found on their website.
Are there any discounts available for Aquarium Aglow tickets?
Yes, early bird pricing is often available through October 31, and aquarium members receive additional discounts on their Aglow tickets.
What is Scuba Claus?
Scuba Claus is a special holiday character who trades his North Pole attire for diving gear to swim with the marine life in the South Carolina Aquarium's Great Ocean Tank.
Is there food and drink available at the event?
Yes, festive fare and refreshments are available for purchase, with options suitable for all ages, including those 21 and older.
What are the parking options for Aquarium Aglow?
The most convenient parking is the city-operated garage at 24 Calhoun Street, which accepts credit cards. Metered street parking is also available nearby. Buses can park in the designated bus lane behind the garage.