Events and Programs

Lecture Series panel discussion
Lecture Series panel discussion Photo: Allegro Photography
Our events and programs promote discovery and instill a sense of wonder for ocean animals and habitats. By coming together to share information and ideas, we can make a vital and vibrant ocean possible.
LOWELL LECTURE SERIES

Reimagining the Climate Movement

The New England Aquarium welcomes Rhodes Scholar, climate activist, and entrepreneur Wawa Gatheru for a talk about climate activism. Gatheru will explore the intersection of climate change and environmental justice, why inclusive leadership matters in building climate solutions, and how we can reimagine the climate movement in our collective image.

Wawa Gatheru
Wawa Gatheru Photo by Eric Muiruri
Special Programming

April School Vacation Week

From April 20 to April 24, enjoy extended hours, daily animal presentations, whale-themed programming, films showing in the Simons Theatre, the reopening of the Dockside Beer Garden + Central Snack Bar, and more!

Eastern fiddler ray at the New England Aquarium
Eastern fiddler ray at the New England Aquarium Photo: Vanessa Kahn
Available April 18 through April 26

Responsibly Caught Lobster Pop-Up

We are serving up lobster specials, featuring locally caught lobster fished with on-demand gear that protects North Atlantic right whales! Our Harbor View Café offers lobster mac and cheese, while our Dockside Beer Garden serves lobster rolls. Proudly presented by the Aquarium’s BalanceBlue Lab and dining partner SodexoLive! together in partnership with local fishers.

Responsibly caught lobster pop-up offerings
Responsibly caught lobster pop-up offerings
April 24, 2026

Massachusetts Right Whale Day

Join us in celebrating Masschusetts Right Whale Day, highlighting the importance of protecting this critically endangered species. Festivities for the day include free events on Central Wharf and at our Harbor View Tent. For those who purchase tickets to the Aquarium, additional talks and activities will be available in the Main Building!

Right Whale Day at the New England Aquarium
Right Whale Day at the New England Aquarium
ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

Experience the Atlantic Harbor Seals Like Never Before

Join our trainers for an exclusive inside-the-exhibit visit with our Atlantic harbor seals! Choose between a meet and greet or art-making session. You’ll learn about the harbor seals’ biology, their habitat, how we care for them, and the methods we use to communicate.

Harbor Seal Encounter
Harbor Seal Encounter

Lowell Lecture Series at the New England Aquarium

With the support of the Lowell Institute, our lecture series offers access to acclaimed experts—including, scientists, environmental writers, photographers, and others—who present on marine conservation and science-themed topics at no cost.

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