South Carolina Aquarium Aglow
The aquarium transforms into an illuminated holiday wonderland featuring dozens of immersive light installations. Guests can wave to Scuba Claus as he dives nightly in the Great Ocean Tank and pose for festive pictures at multiple photo opportunities. Holiday fare and drinks from Rosemary & Rye are available for purchase, and the on-site gift shop remains open throughout the evening.
What to Expect
Immersive holiday light installations and nightly dives with Scuba Claus.
Event Details
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Charleston
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
South Carolina Aquarium
Food & Drink
Festive fare and drinks from Rosemary & Rye are available for purchase; alcoholic beverages are available only to guests 21 and over with valid photo ID.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday-light fans
Vibe
Festive and immersive
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Ticket prices increase by $3 on event dates. – Get tickets
- Hours: 5:30–9 p.m.; scheduled entry times. Guests may stay until 9 p.m.
- Parking: The page recommends the city-operated pay-to-park Aquarium Garage at 24 Calhoun Street as the most convenient parking.
- Accessibility: Wheelchair rentals and resources are available through the aquarium's accessibility services.
Tips & Advice
- Buy before October 31 to get the 15% early-bird discount, since tickets cost more when you buy them on event dates.
- Have your tickets ready on your phone or printed out to speed up entry, and arrive at your scheduled time because early access isn't allowed.
- Keep your flash off when you photograph the light installations and photo-ops, because flash photography isn't allowed anywhere at Aquarium Aglow.
- Wear shoes with good grip, because some areas of the Aquarium have low lighting and the outdoor exhibits can have damp floors.
- Pick up a free KultureCity sensory bag at Admissions or the Info Desk if anyone in your group is sensitive to noise or flickering lights.
Special Events & Promotions
- NYE With the Family on December 31 has roaming entertainers, face painters, a DJ, a vacation dive by Scuba Claus, and a NYE countdown with a pufferfish ball drop, all before bedtime.
- Early-bird pricing gives 15% off tickets through October 31, 2026.
- Aquarium members get 20% off once signed in; offers can't be combined.
- Specially marked dates with later entry times offer extra savings.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What food and drink is there?
Rosemary & Rye sells festive food and drinks, with options for the 21+ crowd. Only guests 21 and over with a valid photo ID can buy alcohol. Refreshments may contain or touch common allergens such as dairy, eggs, soy, wheat, peanuts and tree nuts.
Where should I park?
The most convenient spot is the city-operated pay-to-park Aquarium Garage at 24 Calhoun Street. The public restrooms are also in that garage.
Is it okay for someone sensitive to light or noise?
There are no strobe-like effects, but some installations use flickering lights and may not suit people with photosensitive epilepsy. Free KultureCity sensory bags are available at Admissions and the Info Desk. They include noise-reducing headphones, strobe glasses and communication cards.
Will I see all the animals?
Not always. Animals can choose to take a break from the light and sound, so some, like the river otters, may be out of view. The curtains in Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery come down each evening to mimic a natural light cycle for the sea turtle patients.
What happens if it rains?
Aquarium Aglow goes ahead rain or shine. If bad weather forces a temporary Aquarium closure, ticket holders booked for those dates get refunds.
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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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.