DULUTH — In a festive display of holiday spirit, Santa Claus recently took to the depths of the Great Lakes Aquarium, bringing joy to families and children. Accompanied by an elf, Santa donned scuba gear to feed and clean the aquarium’s resident aquatic animals, captivating the attention of numerous spectators watching from both sides of the glass.
This engaging event took place just days before Santa’s iconic sleigh ride on Christmas Eve. According to the aquarium’s Facebook event listing, the resident animals demonstrated their best behavior, hoping to secure a spot on Santa’s “nice list.” The underwater activity commenced at approximately 11:00 a.m., as families gathered to witness the unique spectacle.
Children of all ages eagerly participated, providing assistance to Santa when his iconic hat slipped off during his dive. The jovial Santa made the experience even more memorable by posing for photos and engaging with guests in playful games of “rock, paper, scissors.”
Community Connection Through Scuba Santa
This event is not Santa’s first venture underwater in Duluth. He has been participating in the Scuba Santa program on weekends since November 29, 2023. Each dive offers a delightful opportunity for families to experience the holiday spirit in an unconventional setting.
For those wishing to witness Santa’s aquatic antics, he is scheduled for one final dive on Sunday morning from 11:00 a.m. to 11:20 a.m. The Scuba Santa program is included with daily admission rates at the Great Lakes Aquarium, ensuring that members can join the festivities at no extra cost.
This heartwarming initiative has not only provided entertainment but has also fostered a sense of community, drawing families together to celebrate the holiday season in a unique and engaging environment. The interaction between Santa, the elf, and the visiting families has undoubtedly created lasting memories that will be cherished for years to come.
As the holiday season approaches, events like these at the Great Lakes Aquarium remind us of the joy and wonder that can be found in shared experiences, especially during this special time of year.
