Celebrate the Holidays at Tennessee Aquarium with SCUBA Claus, Polar Express, and Seasonal Fun

Published on December 21, 2025

The Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga is ringing in the holiday season with a festive underwater adventure for visitors of all ages. Running from November 28 to December 28, 2025, the Aquarium offers a variety of seasonal programs that come as part of the regular admission, ensuring that this year’s visit is extra special. Whether you’re a local or visiting from out of town, the Tennessee Aquarium provides a one-of-a-kind setting to experience the magic of the holidays.

SCUBA Claus Visits the Aquarium

One of the standout events at the Tennessee Aquarium this season is the arrival of SCUBA Claus. Every Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m., SCUBA Claus will take the plunge into the River Journey building, where he will spread holiday cheer from the depths of the aquarium’s waters. As he dives, SCUBA Claus greets visitors, interacting with them under the water and offering a fun twist on traditional holiday visits. This annual tradition has become a much-loved part of the Aquarium’s seasonal festivities, attracting families, young children, and guests of all ages. Watching SCUBA Claus glide through the tanks, surrounded by aquatic life, adds a magical element to the visit that families look forward to each year.

Holiday Music and Décor

Throughout the holiday season, the Tennessee Aquarium is transformed into an underwater winter wonderland, immersing visitors in a festive atmosphere. Holiday music plays in the background, setting the mood as guests stroll through the exhibits. The Aquarium’s carefully designed decorations—ranging from festive wreaths to sparkling lights—enhance the magic of the holiday season. The combination of the holiday atmosphere with the incredible aquatic exhibits makes for a truly unique way to celebrate the season. Guests can enjoy the dazzling array of holiday decorations while taking in the wonders of the underwater world that the aquarium showcases year-round.

The Polar Express 3D Returns

For many, no holiday season is complete without watching The Polar Express. Fortunately, the Tennessee Aquarium is screening this beloved holiday movie daily in their IMAX 3D Theater, now through December 28, 2025. The showings of The Polar Express offer visitors the chance to relive the magical journey to the North Pole in stunning 3D, making it an unforgettable experience for families and movie lovers.

The film, based on the classic children’s book by Chris Van Allsburg, has become a holiday staple, and its immersive 3D presentation at the Tennessee Aquarium elevates the magic for all who attend. Watching the movie on the giant IMAX screen adds a new dimension to the classic holiday film, allowing guests to feel as though they’re on the train alongside the characters, heading toward the North Pole.

A Fun Day for the Whole Family

Whether you’re a Chattanooga resident or traveling to the city for the holidays, the Tennessee Aquarium offers a perfect way to celebrate the season with loved ones. The combination of festive programming and stunning aquatic exhibits ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Families can marvel at the variety of marine life, interact with the aquarium’s exhibits, and enjoy the holiday-themed activities designed for all ages. From the underwater spectacle of SCUBA Claus to the heartwarming tradition of The Polar Express in IMAX 3D, the Tennessee Aquarium is a must-visit destination this holiday season.

Beyond the seasonal events, the aquarium’s regular exhibits provide an educational and awe-inspiring experience for visitors of all ages. Children can learn about the incredible marine species that inhabit the world’s oceans, and adults can explore the many fascinating ecosystems that the aquarium brings to life. The Tennessee Aquarium is renowned for its commitment to conservation and environmental education, offering guests a chance to connect with nature in a fun and meaningful way.

The holiday season at the Tennessee Aquarium goes beyond just festive decorations and seasonal programs—it offers an immersive experience that combines learning, entertainment, and holiday cheer. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day out with the family or looking for an exciting adventure, the Tennessee Aquarium has it all. The season’s events create an environment that is not only fun but also full of wonder, making it an excellent choice for holiday activities in Chattanooga.

Perfect for Holiday Visitors

Chattanooga, known for its scenic beauty and vibrant attractions, offers the Tennessee Aquarium as one of its top holiday destinations. With its diverse array of activities, the aquarium is a central part of the city’s holiday celebrations. Whether you’re looking for a break from the cold winter air or simply seeking a festive outing, the Tennessee Aquarium is a destination that guarantees fun for all ages. Its holiday offerings are designed to bring the magic of the season to life, and the aquatic setting adds a unique twist to the typical holiday festivities.

If you’re planning a visit to Chattanooga this December, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the Tennessee Aquarium’s seasonal programming. The combination of SCUBA Claus, The Polar Express in IMAX 3D, and the beautifully decorated exhibits makes it an unforgettable experience. Bring the family, immerse yourself in the holiday magic, and enjoy the festive spirit that the Tennessee Aquarium offers this season.