It is the aquarium's biggest cultural weekend of the year, and the programming is folded into a normal admission ticket rather than sold as an add-on. Eight short performances a day means you can wander the exhibits and catch a set every forty-five minutes instead of committing to a stage. Presentations run in English and Spanish, so a mixed-language family gets the same show. If Long Beach is your Saturday, this is the anchor.
What to expect
Festival programming in 15–20 minute blocks: 10 a.m., 12:15, 1:45 and 3:15 in the Blue Cavern, and 11:30 a.m., 1, 2:30 and 4 in the Honda Pacific Visions Theater. Between sets, the full aquarium is open as usual, plus booths from participating organizations. The operator notes programs are subject to change and weather dependent.
Good to know
- General admission is required and reservations are required — book before arriving.
- Aquarium members get in free with a reservation.
- The presentation schedule alternates between two indoor venues, so the timings matter more than arriving early.
- Programming runs in both English and Spanish.
- The R.S.V.P. line is (562) 590-3100, ext. 0.
- Paid parking sits across from the aquarium in the Rainbow Harbor structure.
Going? Keep it.
More festivals this weekend
Common questions
Is the festival an extra ticket?
No — the operator lists it as included with general admission, which is $49.95 per adult, $34.95 per child ages 3–11 and $46.95 per senior.
Does it run both days?
Yes, Saturday September 26 and Sunday September 27, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day.