Shreveport, LA (June 26, 2024) – This July, the Shreveport Aquarium invites visitors to dive into a month-long celebration of one of the ocean’s most fascinating creatures – the shark. With a series of engaging and educational events, “JAWsome July” promises to be an unforgettable experience for shark enthusiasts of all ages. The excitement peaks during Shark Week, from July 7 to 14, but festivities begin on July 1 and continue throughout the month.
Month-Long Activities
Shark Talks & Feedings: Starting July 1, guests can enjoy Shark Talks and Feedings every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 2:30 p.m. Aquarium experts will provide insights into the behavior and biology of sharks while demonstrating their feeding habits.
Megalodon Teeth Mining: Aspiring paleontologists can search for fossilized Megalodon teeth at the Red River Treasure Mine throughout July. For an additional fee, visitors can unearth their own piece of prehistoric history and take it home.
Shark Week Highlights (July 7-14)
Daily Giveaways: The first 20 children (ages 2-12) who visit each day during Shark Week will receive a special kids’ shark party pack. This offer is available to both members and guests with regular priced admission.
Shark Art & Poem Gallery: Visitors are encouraged to contribute shark-themed artwork or poetry. Each submission earns an entry into a grand prize drawing for a Shark basket filled with plush toys, a tote bag, water bottle, mugs, pencils, and more.
Fin Fact Frenzy Shark Olympics: This interactive quiz trail will challenge visitors to match their knowledge against the impressive abilities of shark athletes. Participants can earn a gold medal in shark knowledge by completing the quiz.
Meet Sherlock the Shark: The aquarium’s beloved mascot, Sherlock the Shark, will be available for photos and finny high fives from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.
Shark Craft Station: From 11 a.m. to noon, visitors can create shark-themed crafts to take home as souvenirs.
Shark Science: Daily from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., visitors can learn about shark biology and behavior, including electroreception and other fascinating traits. The session will also feature shark jaws and mermaid purses for close-up examination.
Special Events
Shark Week Trivia & Taco Night: On Tuesday, July 9, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., the aquarium will host a trivia night combined with a taco bar. For $15 (free for members), guests can enjoy tacos and participate in shark-themed trivia games at 5:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. Prizes, shark-themed cocktails, and mocktails will be available.
LifeShare Blood Drive: On July 8, 10, and 12, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the aquarium will host a blood drive. Donors will receive a complimentary water bottle or beach towel.
Zenon the Zebra Shark’s Birthday: Celebrate Zenon’s birthday on Thursday, July 11, at 11:30 a.m. Guests can sing happy birthday and watch Zenon enjoy a special clam-flavored cake, while human guests enjoy cupcakes.
Raising Awareness
“While Shark Week is definitely our favorite week of the year and we have so many fun and engaging activities,” said General Manager Josh Evans, “our main goal is to raise awareness of these magnificent and often misunderstood creatures. We want people to know how important they are in keeping our oceans healthy and encourage the public to get involved in conservation.”
Plan Your Visit
The Shreveport Aquarium is located at 601 Clyde Fant Parkway in Downtown Shreveport. It opens at 10 a.m. with the last entry at 5 p.m. from Sunday through Friday and at 9 a.m. with the last entry at 6 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, ticket prices, and a full schedule of events, visit Shreveport Aquarium.