Holiday 2011

Shedd’s holiday tradition, including A Holiday Fantasea, returns on Nov. 25.

A Holiday Fantasea

Shedd Aquarium’s must-see aquatic show, A Holiday Fantasea is back – and this year a few lucky audience members will get to meet a dolphin. From Nov. 25 through Jan. 2, see dolphins leap, hear beluga whales sing and watch a sea lion dance —and Santa makes a special appearance! Celebrate the season at Shedd.

Find out more about A Holiday Fantasea.

Extended Hours and Evening Ticket Package

Visit 32,000 animals and explore Shedd's exhibits, including Jellies, after hours during Shedd's holiday extended hours:
Dec 19-23 and 26-30, 2011 from 5 to 9 p.m.

Special ticket packages will be available for purchase after 5 p.m.:
$20 ticket packages for one adult or one child include access to all of Shedd's exhibits, including Jellies, and admission to A Holiday Fantasea (limited availability, on a first-come, first-served basis). Tickets to the 4-D Experience are available for an additional charge.

Evening ticket packages are available for purchase on site in the main ticket line for Shedd. Ticket sales end at 8:15 p.m.

The Polar Express 4-D Experience

Enjoy a holiday classic in a new way with The Polar Express 4-D Experience, starting Nov. 25! The movie has been transformed into a magical 15-minute 4-D feature. When a doubting young boy takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery that shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe.

Get showtimes.

THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.
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Shedd Holiday Breakfasts

For a super holiday treat, register for one of our Shedd holiday breakfasts, featuring The Polar Express 4-D Experience and our new aquatic show, A Holiday Fantasea!

First, you’ll enjoy a full breakfast. Then it’s “All aboard!” for a private viewing of the 15-minute The Polar Express 4-D Experience, followed by a drawing for special prizes. Your holiday fun continues with a visit to Shedd's children's exhibit, the Polar Play Zone, where you can meet Santa, have your photo taken with him and receive a gift, and finish your special day with reserved seats to A Holiday Fantasea.

Saturday, Dec. 10 (sold out), Saturday, Dec. 17 (sold out) or
Thursday, Dec. 22

Adults $44.95; children $34.95
Members receive a $5 discount.
All breakfasts begin at 8 a.m. This program also includes admission to the aquarium.

To register, call 312-692-2716, download our registration form or
complete our online request form. All reservations must be requested and completed a minimum of two business days prior to the date of the event.

Holiday Gifts

Shedd has something for everyone on your holiday gift list. Give the gift of Shedd with an annual membership, a beluga encounter, a penguin encounter, a Trainer for a Day experience, or a behind-the-scenes tour. And shop Shedd's gift stores and online store for an incredible variety of aquatic-themed gifts, from stocking stuffers to that perfect present, for children and adults.

Find out more about holiday gift options at Shedd.

Wreath-cycled Classroom Activity
Students can help deck the halls at Shedd Aquarium this holiday season! Classes can work together to create a wreath made of recycled materials that will be displayed as part of Shedd’s holiday décor. Download the instruction packet, or receive yours at the Cruisin’ into Shedd Educator Open House on Wednesday, Oct. 5.

Tips for a Great Visit

The holidays are a popular time to visit Shedd Aquarium.Use our tips for a great visit to help you plan your day!

Extended Hours for the Holidays!

Dec. 26 through Dec. 30,
Shedd will be open from
9 a.m.–9 p.m.
(Ticket sales end at 8:15 p.m.)