Shark Summer Brings Fin-Tastic Fun To Birch Aquarium

SAN DIEGO, CA — Sharks are taking over Birch Aquarium as Shark Summer kicks off with a month of educational talks, live feedings and fin-tastic fun.

The annual event, which runs through Aug. 2, features shark-themed activities for visitors of all ages, including shark exploration stations, themed dive presentations and Sharks and Rays 101 talks.

Shark Summer highlights the important role sharks play in marine ecosystems while showcasing conservation efforts through Birch Aquarium's partnership with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums' SAFE Shark and Ray program. The initiative works with more than 60 organizations nationwide to help protect shark and ray species from extinction.

A special after-hours event, Oceans at Night: Sharks, is scheduled for July 9. The 21-and-older event will feature live entertainment, interactive games, a kelp forest dive presentation and opportunities to meet shark experts from Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

During Shark Summer, donations collected in the aquarium's Galleria will benefit the AZA SAFE Shark and Ray program.

"Birch Aquarium is teaming up with the AZA SAFE Shark and Ray program to make a positive impact on shark and ray conservation," Aquarist Brent Fish said. "We're highlighting this unique and diverse group of animals to raise awareness of how important they are and the threats they face."

All Shark Summer activities, except Oceans at Night: Sharks, are included with general admission. Birch Aquarium opens daily at 9 a.m., with closing times varying by day. Advance tickets are recommended for the best pricing.