Tampa, Fla. – On Wednesday, November 11, the Florida Aquarium will welcome eligible service members and their families with free admission in honor of Veterans Day. The museum’s special schedule includes underwater flag‑waving displays, live music by veteran‑led groups, and a series of patriotic performances designed to celebrate the sacrifices of America’s military.

Who qualifies for free entry?

The offer applies to active‑duty service members, veterans, retired service members, drilling reservists, National Guard members, and those honorably or medically discharged. Guests must present a valid U.S. military ID or DD Form 214 at the ticket window. No advance reservation is required, and tickets are valid only for the day of purchase.

Special Veterans Day programming

Visitors can enjoy a full day of activities:

• Underwater Veterans Day Salute – Costumed divers will wave American flags inside the Coral Reef habitat at 9:15‑10:15 a.m., 1:00‑1:30 p.m., and 1:45‑2:15 p.m.
• Haley’s Harmonica Vets – From 10:00‑11:00 a.m., three disabled veterans from James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital will perform harmonica pieces, including the National Anthem and branch‑specific anthems, as part of their therapeutic program.
• Guitars for Vets – Between 1:00‑4:00 p.m., two musicians from the Tampa chapter of a national nonprofit will play patriotic favorites. The organization offers a 10‑week guitar instruction program for veterans coping with PTSD and other service‑related trauma.

Additional community outreach

Earlier this month, the aquarium hosted a sloth‑encounter event for veterans and military spouses from MacDill Air Force Base and Tampa Elks Lodge No. 708. Participants fed and photographed Apaporis, one of the aquarium’s resident sloth ambassadors, in recognition of their service.

Practical details

The aquarium will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Veterans Day. Admission tickets are non‑refundable and cannot be combined with other discounts or promotions. For more information on the day’s schedule and ticket redemption, visitors should consult the Florida Aquarium’s website or speak with staff at the ticket window.

By offering free entry and a day of patriotic programming, the Florida Aquarium underscores its commitment to the military community—a tradition of gratitude that aligns with the values of family, faith, and liberty cherished by Tampa residents.

Original reporting: Tampa Bay Florida News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.