Birch Aquarium Launches Two New After-Dark Experiences This Year

Birch Aquarium is shaking things up in 2026 with nighttime programming that’s worth staying up for. They’re bringing back Oceans at Night for the 21+ crowd and launching an all-ages Birch After Hours series – both designed to show you what the ocean looks like when the lights go down.

Oceans at Night Is Back for Adults

If you’ve been to Oceans at Night before, you know it’s one of the better ways to experience the aquarium. No kids, drinks in hand, music playing, and the whole place takes on a completely different energy after dark.

The series returns with an Aquanauts theme tied to the aquarium’s newest exhibition, Meditation Ocean: Aquarius Reef Base. You’ll get to explore an underwater research station, experience what life is like as an aquanaut, and have some moments to actually slow down and take it all in – all while enjoying that adults-only atmosphere.

More dates and themes will be announced later, so if this first one sells out, there will be others throughout the year.

Birch After Hours Brings Families Into the Mix

The aquarium is also launching Birch After Hours – an all-ages evening experience happening on Sunday nights. It’s designed for families, couples, or anyone who wants to wind down the weekend somewhere a little more interesting than their couch.

Tickets are discounted, there’s music and food, and the vibe is intentionally relaxed. It’s a way to experience the aquarium without the usual daytime crowds, which honestly makes a big difference when you’re trying to actually see the exhibits.

The Ocean After Dark Hits Different

Executive Director Harry Helling put it well: “Nighttime at the aquarium reveals a completely different side of the ocean.” Both events feature special lighting that transforms the Living Seas area, with glowing surprises around every corner.

Whether you’re there for the science, the atmosphere, or just something different to do, seeing these exhibits after dark adds a layer that you don’t get during regular hours.

Plan Ahead

Tickets for both events need to be purchased online in advance, especially if you want the discounted pricing for Birch After Hours. Oceans at Night starts at $53.95 for members and $59.95 for general admission.

Given how popular the previous Oceans at Night events have been, it’s worth grabbing tickets early if you’re interested.

See you there!

The aquarium after dark, drinks or no drinks depending on which night you pick – this is La Jolla doing something a little different, and we’re here for it.

📆 Oceans at Night: Thursday, January 29, at 6:30 PM | Birch After Hours: Starts Sunday, February 15 (Sunday nights, 5 PM – 7 PM)
🎟️ Tickets: Oceans at Night: Aquanauts | Birch After Hours
ℹ️ More info here

See you there, San Diego!