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The Maritime Aquarium is offering a sunny selection of fun special activities, crafts, tropical drinks and special IMAX movies sure to melt midwinter’s chill.
“This fun weekend is the opportunity to enjoy a taste of the tropics in the dead of winter,” said Chris Loynd, the Aquarium’s marketing director. “Some offerings may reflect a true Hawaiian luau, but don’t be surprised to find Caribbean elements as well. The main intent of our Long Island Sound Luau is to have fun and feel like you got away to somewhere warm at least for a little while.”
Among the highlights is an inflatable surfing machine featuring a rollicking surfboard, billed as “a real-life surfing experience without getting wet.” Aquarium guests can take turns testing their surfing skills on the board, in a manner similar to bull-riding machines. It’s free with Aquarium admission. Also during the weekend Luau, guests can compete in Spam-Carving Contests.
Spam-Carving Contests will be held at 1 and 3 p.m. both days. Aquarium guests paying $5 will receive a can of Spam, a tray and a plastic knife, and have 30 minutes to sculpt a masterful Spam creation. Contestants can work as individuals, couples, families or other teams. Aquarium staff will judge the entries, with first prize in each of the two daily competitions receiving $100 and a Maritime Aquarium membership.
Also during the Luau, Aquarium guests can:- Decorate and personalize a lei at a craft station.
- Enjoy frozen fruity non-alcoholic drinks.
- Stop by stations staffed by Aquarium educators to learn about tropical ocean currents and the animals who use these “ocean highways” to their advantage, including certain species of whales, sea turtles and – unfortunately – invasive lionfish.
The IMAX Theater will also show special screenings to go along with the tropical themed weekend with the showing of "Journey to the South Pacific," narrated by Academy Award-winner Cate Blanchett.
Aquarium guests also can pet or hold a live bearded dragon during “Meet the Dragon” encounters, offered daily Feb. 13-21. Times are 11 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 2 p.m. and 3 to 4 p.m.
Get all the details about the Long Island Sound Luau at the Maritime Aquarium website.
The Maritime Aquarium is located at 10 N Water St.
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