December 2024

If your yuletide plans include seeing divers swimming among sharks surrounded by a forest of holiday trees, then we're your one-stop shop for making dreams come true this holiday season. A favorite for holiday revelers, the 2024 Cape Fear Festival of Trees runs through Dec. 30, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher. The event features 45 trees beautifully adorned by sponsors supporting Lower Cape Fear LifeCare Foundation and is included in Aquarium admission. Members attend for free.

During its run, the festival will close only on the two days of the year when the Aquarium is closed—Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

“We are excited to welcome the community to the 2024 Festival of Trees at the Aquarium where they will stroll along a forest of decorated trees, while also gazing at sharks, sea turtles and other majestic animals,” said Joanna Zazzali, NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher Director.

By showcasing the Festival of Trees, the Aquarium welcomes thousands of visitors who will be dazzled by the trees and the amazing animals. With so many in the community visiting the Aquarium for the festival, staff and volunteers look forward to sharing animal stories and continuing a tradition of inspiring the community to protect our oceans.

Plan ahead by reserving your tickets or member entry online. Tickets sell out during special events.