Our year-end festive celebration family sleepover has become a tradition. Last year, 120 excited Solemates (adults and children) camped out at the Aquarium and enjoyed an evening of fun, surprises and family memories.

Members were welcomed by our energetic staff with a glass of bubbly or juice, and mince pies and marshmallows. The little ones had their faces painted while their parents relaxed and socialised in the balmy summer’s evening.

The adults were tasked with setting-up camp for the night, and had to choose between sleeping in front of the I&J Predator Exhibit, in the magnificent tunnel area, on the balcony or at the Ocean Basket Kelp Forest Exhibit. Whatever their choice, the “campers” had an incredible underwater view to lull them to sleep.

The sleepover took place when the Aquarium extended its hours, so members had the opportunity to view the displays at their leisure while children enjoyed making their own fishy Christmas stocking.

The evening continued at the I&J Predator Exhibit, where members were acknowledged and thanked for their commitment to the Aquarium. As a token of our appreciation, we presented gifts to everyone. The children’s stockings were filled with sweets, juice, crackers and chocolates while the parents received a special souvenir glass jar filled with hand-made cinnamon biscuits.

And there were more surprises! In true Aquarium tradition, Father Christmas donned his favourite red and white diving gear and made an appearance in the I&J Predator Exhibit. Shortly after his underwater adventure he popped in to hand out gifts to all the children. He was certainly the highlight of the evening; while some kids were shy others ran to hug him and had their photos taken, sitting with him on his throne.

The evening ended with hot chocolate and marshmallows and the screening of Santa Buddies. The time had come to snuggle down in sleeping bags while ragged tooth sharks kept a watchful eye!

What members had to say

Thank you for a wonderful evening on Saturday, and the efforts you all made to plan a special night. We last slept over in June 2009, and found it fun, but very crowded and noisy! This time we had the kelp forest virtually to ourselves, and waking up to the sun streaming through from above was so beautiful.
 The Christmas stocking was much appreciated by my son, and the jar of biscuits was such a fun idea. (Do you have the recipe for those star biscuits?? My husband LOVED them!) 
Wishing you all a joyful holiday season. –
 Katharine Arzul

Just to say thank you for a wonderful time at the aquarium on Saturday. The kids thoroughly enjoyed themselves ... and I had a great time too. Have a wonderful festive season. – Jakes Potgieter

Brilliant event! We thoroughly enjoy every event we attend and my son enjoyed making his Christmas stocking. And we got cookies too! Once again, great service and caring from the Aquarium team.
– Cecelia Berezowski

Valentine’s coming up!

Our next event is the popular Valentine’s with a Difference at the Aquarium. Book now to avoid disappointment – tables are selling like hotcakes.

Click here for more information.

Save online

Click here for further information on how to become a member and enjoy great opportunities such as attending the family sleepovers, as well as discounts at the Aquarium Shop and Shoreline Café, and more!

Buy or renew your annual pass here and save.

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