Celebrate Right Whale Day at the New England Aquarium

See the schedule for Massachusetts’ Right Whale Day celebrations on April 24, 2026.

By New England Aquarium on Thursday, April 02, 2026

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Calvin the life-size inflatable whale on Central Wharf Plaza Photo: Allegra Boverman

April 24 is Right Whale Day in Massachusetts, celebrating the state’s official marine mammal, highlighting the importance of protecting this critically endangered species.

Here at the Aquarium, festivities for the day include free events on Central Wharf and the Harbor View Tent. For those who purchase tickets to the Aquarium, additional talks and activities will be available in the Main Building. See our schedule of events below, and join us to learn more about how you can help honor and protect marine life at Right Whale Day!

Free programming

Right Whale Day Commemoration

10:00–11:00 a.m.
Harbor View Tent

Hear from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs, the New England Aquarium, and more.

Tabling Event

10:00–1:00 p.m.
Harbor View Tent

Learn about organizations advancing right whale conservation efforts, with information on right whale research, on-demand or “ropeless” fishing gear, and the Massachusetts Environmental Trust Right Whale license plate program. Attendees will also enjoy a performance from Liquid Spine, ​an eco-dance company that reveals environmental needs and stories of our water systems, through movement,​ ​community, and international exchange.

Calvin the Inflatable Right Whale and Activities

10:00–3:00 p.m.
Central Wharf Plaza

Calvin, the life-sized inflatable right whale, will be on full display on the front plaza (weather permitting). Meet Aquarium scientists and learn about North Atlantic right whale research conducted through our Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life.

With Aquarium admission

Right Whale Day Presentations and Activities

Activities throughout the day; presentations at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.
Inside the Aquarium

Staff will be sharing learning opportunities for all ages throughout the day, including activities in our Exploration Station. Visitors can also learn more about our Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life’s North Atlantic right whale research through hands-on activities, along with talks from Aquarium educators and Anderson Cabot Center scientists at the top of the Giant Ocean Tank at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

Children's whale artwork displayed on a wall from the New England Aquarium program, featuring colorful and varied drawings
A themed coloring activity for visitors in the Exploration Station Photo by Allegra Boverman
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Make a Difference for Right Whales

These critically endangered animals need our help. See how you can get involved with the Aquarium’s work to protect right whales.