Featured Events ~ Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

Looking for something special during your visit? Check out what’s coming up in our featured events.

Toddler Tuesdays (Virtual)

Tuesday, January 19, 2021 11:00 AM

We invite you and your child to join Miss Jenny virtually as she brings age-appropriate pre-school programs that may include a letter of the day, colors, stories, and songs. While these events are free, you must register for each event separately!

On this virtual Toddler Tuesday Miss Jenny will highlight the hare, with a spotlight on the letter h, and a reading of Harris Finds His Feet, written by Catherine Rayner!

Next Virtual Toddler Tuesday:

January 26

Homeschool Science Academy: Ocean Odyssey

Wednesday, January 20, 2021 2:00 PM

Ocean Odyssey: Deep Sea Investigation

Calling all explorers in grades 6-8 to our brand new Homeschool Science Academy! Discover the deepest portion of the ocean as you investigate the various methods oceanographers use to explore and study the ocean floor. Uncover unique animal adaptations found in some of the darkest locations on planet Earth.

*Our next Homeschool Science Academy is February 24

Please visit our Homeschool Science Academy webpage for more information and how to register. Spaces are limited!

Star Ship: Astronomy Boat Tour

Thursday, January 21, 2021 7:00 PM

Escape light pollution to view the splendor of Virginia’s night sky that can only be seen during an astronomical 2-hour boat tour! Your onboard astronomy educator will guide you on a tour of the Virginia skies, pointing out prominent constellations and other celestial bodies.

See our Boat Page for more information or if you are ready, you can buy tickets HERE!

*Face coverings are required for everyone on board age 5 and over.

Behind-the-Scenes Tour (Virtual Program)

Monday, January 25, 2021 3:30 PM

Follow along with an Aquarium educator on a 30-minute (pre-recorded) behind the scenes look at our exhibits that will be sent to you prior to the event.

Then, attend this 30-minute live session with an educator where you can ask questions on a variety of topics including STEM careers, training and enrichment, conservation, and water quality.

This is a wonderful opportunity for students in grades 6-8 to learn more about the various areas of work and interest within the world of marine sciences.

Purchase tickets HERE

**A link to the program will be sent via email a week before the program date. **

Computer requirements:

Desktop, laptop, or tablet computer
Webcam and microphone
Projector and speakers
Stable internet connection

Habitats & Adaptations (Virtual Program)

Wednesday, January 27, 2021 3:30 PM

Test your own adaptation skills and identify animal adaptations for protection, locomotion, and finding food. Can you adapt yourself to live in different habitats? Find out in this 50-minute virtual program geared for students in grades 3-5.

Purchase tickets HERE

**A link to the program will be sent via email a week before the program date. **

Computer requirements:

Desktop, laptop, or tablet computer
Webcam and microphone
Projector and speakers
Stable internet connection

Fishes of the Chesapeake Bay (Virtual Program)

Monday, February 1, 2021 3:30 PM

We are inviting all young scientists and inquisitive minds to dive into our Chesapeake Bay Aquarium to observe fish shapes and behavior. Learn how this dynamic ecosystem supports a variety of biodiversity in this 50-minute virtual program (geared to grades 1 & 2)!

Tickets can be purchased HERE.

**A link to the program will be sent via email a week before the program date. **

Computer requirements:

Desktop, laptop, or tablet computer
Webcam and microphone
Projector and speakers
Stable internet connection

Shark Senses (Virtual Program)

Wednesday, February 3, 2021 3:30 PM

Calling all parents of Pre-K and Kindergarten students! Join us for a 30-minute virtual program where your little scientist can observe our shark exhibit and learn all about how sharks sense the world around them.

Tickets can be purchased HERE.

**A link to the program will be sent via email a week before the program date. **

Computer requirements:

Desktop, laptop, or tablet computer
Webcam and microphone
Projector and speakers
Stable internet connection

Homeschool Science Academy: Living With The Land

Wednesday, February 10, 2021 2:00 PM

Living with the Land

Calling all explorers in grades 6-8 to our next HSA workshop! Explore the composition of Earth's crusty coating, then use the Engineering Design Process to understand and mitigate the effects of natural disasters on humans and wildlife.

Grades K-2 - February 10 (2-4 pm) SOLD OUT*

Grades 3-5 - February 17 (2-4 pm) SOLD OUT*

Grades 6-8 - February 24 (2-4 pm)

Please visit our Homeschool Science Academy webpage for more information and how to register. Spaces are limited!

*Call if you would like to be added to a waitlist for an Academy that has been sold out.

Sensory Friendly Morning

Saturday, February 13, 2021 7:30 AM

We will open early exclusively for individuals and families wanting a quieter Aquarium experience with soft lighting, limited sounds, and other modifications. We hope that this special event will allow guests to enjoy the animals and exhibits at their own pace and ensure a comfortable visit for everyone, before the doors open to the general public at 9 a.m.

Advanced registration/timed ticketing is required and regular admission rates apply.

Please note: One caretaker will be admitted at no charge if they are working with a guest who is visiting the Aquarium. A caretaker is defined as a required attendant without whom the guest could not tour the Aquarium, and the guest may request an additional caretaker be admitted at 50% of the regular admission.

Blood Drive

Friday, April 2, 2021 9:00 AM

Be the lifeline people need and give blood! Please consider the gift of life.

The American Red Cross continues to need blood donations to be adequately prepared to respond to unexpected high demands. They are also performing COVID-19 antibody tests, vital to the continued fight against the pandemic.

We're all in this together, and here is a great way everyone can step in and help!

For the safety of everyone, participation is by appointment only.

Good news! You can easily set an appointment time that works for you HERE. Use sponsor code VAMS.

For a speedier check-in, visit RapidPass on the day of but prior to the time of your appointment.