CONEY ISLAND, N.Y. — September 8, 2026 — Ascarium, New York Aquarium’s flagship Halloween celebration, will return this fall for another season of marine magic at one of the city’s most sought-after family destinations. Ascarium transforms a day at the Aquarium into a playful Halloween adventure, inviting marine lovers and fall enthusiasts alike to discover the ocean’s real-life mysteries and learn more about wildlife that inhabits New York’s waters. The event will run on select weekends October 10-31, plus Monday, October 12.

New elements this year add even more enchantment. At the Sea of Illusions, the Aquarium's signature new experience, the Sea Change exhibit is transformed into an immersive journey across five themed seascapes, where guests can learn how marine animals disguise themselves like nature’s ultimate Halloween costumes. New, hand-crafted pumpkin sculptures present the perfect photo backdrop, while debut bubble performances welcome guests to dance and move like water. These first-time features add excitement to an already expansive event:

  • NEW Sea of Illusions: Journey through Sea Change to encounter magical seascapes where animals hide, camouflage, glow, and change forms across five immersive areas: Bioluminescent Ocean, Dark Abyss, Enchanted Kelp Forest, Color Connection, and the Shape-Shifter Station.
  • NEW Aquatic Pumpkin Sculptures: Snap photos at beautifully hand crafted, larger-than-life shark and octopus pumpkin sculptures.
  • NEW Bubble Performances: Enjoy interactive bubble play led by a costumed performer.

Ascarium combines Halloween storytelling, immersive underwater environments, and 4,500 aquatic animals into one unforgettable experience that stands out in a city celebrated for its traditional fall festivities. Favorite activities will also return to the seaside celebration:

  • Aquatic Animal Chats & Feedings: Get to know the Aquarium’s animals and learn more about enrichment activities, special adaptations, and protecting species in the wild.
  • Costume Parade: Dawn your Halloween best and join costumed performers and aquatic puppets for on-the-move entertainment.
  • Face Painting: Transform into a spooky or friendly creature with face-painting for ages 3+.
  • Magic Shows: Enjoy marine-themed magic tricks led by a much-loved magician.
  • Aquatheater: Witness the bonds our sea lions have with their trainers in this interactive celebration.
  • Spooky Scavenger Hunt: Learn why some creatures aren’t as “spooky” as you might think – visit piranhas, wolf eels, spider crabs, and more along a self-guided scavenger hunt.
  • “Strange Things” Station: See some “strange things” from the ocean depths and hear unique stories from Aquarium staff about amazing encounters and discoveries.
  • Wildlife Theater: Augusta’s New Age of Ascarium: Ringleader Augusta C. Lion is auditioning acts for the Carnival of Aquatic Anomalies.  Help Augusta determine who o-fish-ally qualifies for a spot in this musical show.
  • Natural Treasures Dig: Discover shells and spot animals found on New York's beaches in our sand table activity.
  • Marine Mystery Wall: Discover the strange and varied textures of animals that live in the sea.
  • Plus – MORE festive fun, including lawn and carnival games, seasonal crafts, fall treats, a Halloween-themed community mural, and not-so-scary storytelling from the underwater world.

Ascarium is included with New York Aquarium admission and is free for WCS Members. Non-members must reserve tickets in advance; no reservations are required for Members. Visit NYAquarium.com/Ascarium to explore the daily schedule of activities, view available dates, and book your visit. Follow the New York Aquarium on social media for updates and more: Facebook | Instagram | X.

Event Dates: October 10-12, 17-18, 24-25, 31