From 6 to 9 p.m., guests can enjoy an evening of country-inspired entertainment, animal presentations, and after-hours access to the aquarium. The event combines line dancing and coastal cocktails with opportunities to see some of the aquarium’s resident marine animals.
Whether you’re an experienced two-stepper or simply looking for a unique night out, guests are invited to put on their favorite country-inspired look and enjoy the evening by the bay.
What to Expect at Denim & Dolphins
The event offers plenty to do throughout the evening. General admission includes after-hours access to the aquarium, where guests can explore exhibits and animal habitats outside of regular operating hours.
Entertainment and activities include:
- Line dancing with a live DJ
- Dolphin presentation
- Sea lion talks with the animal care team
- Kids’ craft tables and games
- Raffle
- After-hours aquarium access
Adult general admission also includes one signature drink, beer or wine. Additional food and drinks will be available for purchase until 8:30 p.m.
Pinniped Pier and other animal habitats outside the Stone Dolphin Complex will remain open to guests until 8:30 p.m.
VIP Experience
For guests looking to make the evening a little more special, VIP tickets include several additional perks.
VIP guests can enter early at 5:30 p.m. and enjoy a buffet from 5:30 to 8 p.m., with desserts available until 8:30 p.m. VIP admission also includes a reserved seating area, private raffle and a private Animal Connections Presentation in the Dolphin Tale Theater from 5:45 to 6:15 p.m.
VIP ticket holders also receive all of the benefits included with general admission.
Denim & Dolphins Tickets
General admission costs $50 for adults and $40 for children ages 3-11. Children age 2 and under are free.
VIP admission is $75 for adults and $60 for children ages 3-11. VIP tickets are limited.
Clearwater Marine Aquarium members receive discounted admission. Member pricing is:
- Adult general admission: $25
- Child general admission: $20
- Adult VIP: $50
- Child VIP: $40
Net proceeds from the event support Clearwater Marine Aquarium’s mission to rescue, rehabilitate and release marine life.
Event Details
What: Denim & Dolphins: A Country Night by the Bay
When: October 17, 2026, from 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: Clearwater Marine Aquarium
General admission: $50 adults; $40 children ages 3-11
VIP admission: $75 adults; $60 children ages 3-11
General admission check-in begins at 6 p.m. through the main entrance on Level 3. Clearwater Marine Aquarium members can take advantage of early entry beginning at 5:30 p.m.
Guests must be at least 21 years old to purchase or consume alcohol and will need to show identification. Credit cards are accepted at the aquarium’s bars.
Event programming, ticket prices, and other details are subject to change.
Plan a Country Night by the Bay
With live music, line dancing, marine-life presentations and after-hours aquarium access, Denim & Dolphins offers a different way to experience Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
The October 17 event also gives guests the opportunity to support the aquarium’s work rescuing and rehabilitating marine animals while enjoying a country-themed night along the bay.
For more information, visit HERE.
