Twinkling lights.  Sugary treats.  Festive parties.  Work- and school-free vacation days.  There are many reasons to be excited about the winter holidays.  The Greater Cleveland Aquarium invites those looking to get out of the house or mall traffic to expend a little of that seasonal spirit at the Seas’N of Play now through January 6, 10 am–5 pm.  Activity stops throughout the Aquarium encourage guests to appreciate some pretty amazing animal traits.

“Whether it’s the archerfish’s knack for spurting streams of water at distant insects with spot-on accuracy or an eel’s ability to twist and turn its body in such a way as to swim backwards, animals have some stunning natural abilities,” notes Aquarium GM Tami Brown.  During Seas’N of Play Aquarium guests will be invited to try to playfully imitate some of these talents by walking like a crab or stretching their arms wide like a giant Pacific octopus.  Brown sees it as a fun way to explore the natural world while releasing some pent-up energy.  “It’s a great way for kids to get the wiggles out,” she says.

Not ready to attempt a yoga sea star pose?  All guests are invited to participate in an Aquarium-wide scavenger hunt for the chance to win an annual family pass.  Children visiting during Seas’N of Play also receive an original holiday mini activity book and temporary tattoo (while supplies last).

While getting a better understanding of angelfish, candy cane coral, green moray eels and other tropical-yet-holiday-sounding aquatic creatures is arguably a great way to spend a chilly Cleveland morning or afternoon, there’s one activity that stands out from all the rest during the holidays and that’s the opportunity to meet Scuba Claus underwater (Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, November 23–December 23,  plus Christmas Eve, 1–2 pm). “This adventurous jolly red elf likes to reset and refocus with a quick shark dive,” says Brown.  Guests are invited to meet Scuba Claus, share their holiday wishes and snap a quick selfie with their cellphones. “Who knows?  You might even get photobombed by a ‘grinning’ sandtiger shark,” jokes Brown.

For a schedule of Scuba Claus appearances, admission and hours, visit greaterclevelandaquarium.com.