May the Fourth be with you, always.
At the Newport Aquarium, they will be celebrating national Star Wars Day by transporting guests and animals to a galaxSEA far, far away. From underwater Jedi battles in the Surrounded by Sharks Exhibit to Ophelia, the giant pacific octopus, wielding her own lightsaber, the force will be with everyone at Newport Aquarium.
In addition to their favorite animals, guests on May 4 will get to interact with characters from Star Wars. Star Wars Day is one of the many ways Newport Aquarium works to provide enrichment for the animals in its care.
Newport Aquarium biologist Michelle Fry inspired May the Fourth celebrations at the aquarium by combining two of her favorite things: animals and Star Wars. Aside from being fun for us humans, Fry says it’s also beneficial for the animals.
“Animals are just like people in the sense they need to mix things up every once in a while,” Fry said. “Enrichment helps to bring out a species’ natural behavior and it’s a great educational tool for visitors.”
Enrichment is a way to make sure the needs of animals are being met by providing them with mental and physical stimulation. Enrichment activities can include changing up an animal’s food or offering a special object to interact with, both great ways to stimulate the senses. Guests are encouraged to keep an eye out for a variety of space-themed enrichment elements throughout the aquarium.
Visitors are invited to sea, touch and explore with their favorite sea and space creatures all day long on May 4. Tickets should be purchased in advance at NewportAquarium.com. The aquarium offers Plan-Ahead Pricing where tickets are cheaper the sooner they are purchased. It also guarantees an entry time amid limited capacities.
