Skip to main content
Tuesday, November 10, 2026Nov 10

Mako time for Sharkfest at Tennessee Aquarium

Tennessee Aquarium visitors can check out hands-on exhibits about sharks.
Tennessee Aquarium visitors can check out hands-on exhibits about sharks. Tennessee Aquarium visitors can check out hands-on exhibits about sharks.
photo Photo-ops with costumed shark mascots will be part of Sharkfest.

For an animal whose importance to ocean life can’t be overstated, the shark has a tremendous public relations problem.

Almost always portrayed as villains lurking in the salty depths, sharks really should be celebrated for the role they play as apex predators by keeping populations of other species healthy and thriving.

In short, sharks are friends, not foes.

In recognition of this, the Tennessee Aquarium will host a jawsome celebration of all things shark when SharkFest returns on Friday, Aug. 2. During this members-only event from 5 to 8 p.m., guests will enjoy a variety of activities on the Aquarium Plaza and throughout the Ocean Journey building.

* Upon arrival, visitors will be able to sink their teeth into shark-infused ice cream treats from Clumpies Ice Cream Co., have their faces painted and visit the experts from Great Clips for a fin-tastic ‘do in a range of rad colors.