NC Aquarium to celebrate 50th anniversary with mermaids, marine life at Independence Mall
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher is marking the 50th anniversary of the North Carolina Aquariums with a free public celebration featuring mermaids, marine animals and hands-on activities in Wilmington next month.
The aquarium will host its 50th Birthday Splash on Sunday, Nov. 15, from noon to 4 p.m. at Discovery Bay, located inside Independence Mall in the JCPenney wing.
According to aquarium officials, the event will include mermaid meet-and-greets, ocean-themed crafts and animal encounters led by aquarium staff.
The celebration comes as the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher remains closed for a major renovation and expansion project.
Discovery Bay opened in July 2026 as a temporary location to provide educational programming and opportunities for visitors to learn about marine and freshwater animals during construction.
The space features aquatic habitats, animal encounters and educational activities.
Aquarium members will also have an opportunity to attend a separate event from 10 a.m. to noon before the public celebration begins.
The members-only experience will include a continental breakfast, mermaid story time and photo opportunities.
Tickets for the members-only event cost $5 per person and must be purchased online. Each attendee will also receive a $5 gift shop coupon.
The North Carolina Aquariums were established in 1976 and operate three aquariums and a fishing pier across the state.
As part of its ongoing renovation, the Fort Fisher location is expected to become the largest aquarium in North Carolina.
Plans include a 400,000-gallon sand tiger shark habitat, a new coral reef habitat, interactive shark and ray touch pools and expanded educational spaces.
The public anniversary celebration at Discovery Bay is free to attend.
Discovery Bay is located in the JCPenney wing of Independence Mall in Wilmington.
