Here are the events happening at the Tennessee Aquarium.
Groundhog Day at the Tennessee Aquarium
Tuesday, Feb. 2, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Special animal encounters with the Tennessee Aquarium’s very own groundhog and other species will focus on the folklore associated with critter forecasts. Learn how Americans once observed everything from bluebirds and flying squirrels to crickets, frogs and cuttlefish to predict upcoming weather changes.
Free with Aquarium admission
Valentine Sunset Cruise on the River Gorge Explorer
Saturday, Feb. 13, 4-6 p.m.
Our romantic two-hour sunset cruise takes you into the gorge-ous Grand Canyon of Tennessee where a naturalist will point out soaring eagles and sights with complimentary appetizers. Pop the question, renew your vows or even tie the knot. Captains are ordained ministers if you bring the license and witness. Cash bar available for wine, beer and soft drinks. Return in time to enjoy a special dinner at one of Chattanooga’s fine restaurants.
$36 for member adults, $29 for member child, 4-12. $41 for adult; $33 child, $20 child (3 and younger)
Chestnut Roast & Toast
Sunday, Feb. 21, 2–4 p.m.
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…ever wonder what they tasted like? Unfortunately, a devastating blight has destroyed all of the American chestnut trees. Find out whether the American Chestnut Foundation will be able to bring this tree back to southeastern forests. Join Dr. Hill Craddock from UTC and Aquarium Horticulturist Christine Bock at Greenway Farm for a look at the current state of the hybrid and American chestnut. Look at the chestnut orchards to learn about the Chattanooga Chestnut Tree Project. End with an apple cider toast with roasted chestnuts to experience a taste of what used to be and hopefully will be again. Wear good walking shoes and plan for the weather.
$6 for member; $12 for non-member
Wild Ocean 3D opens at IMAX
Friday, Feb. 26, daily at noon, 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. Also 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
Wild Ocean 3D is an action packed, inspirational film that transports audiences to the waters off Wild Coast in South Africa. Viewers will come face to face with billions of sardines and the acrobatic animals that feed upon them. Bottlenose dolphins create superpods, thousands strong, to track down the huge shoals of fish. Seals, penguins and diving birds, like cape gannets, join in the annual feeding frenzy. Sharks sense the action and join the hunt, at times accompanied by humpback whales. The 3D experience places audiences in the middle of this incredible natural event where it’s EAT – or get eaten.
Adults are $8.50, children (3-12): $6.