Explore our History

Opening Day

A daylong celebration culminates seven years of dreaming, planning and construction as the Aquarium opens its doors. First-day attendance is 10,681 and the line stretches most of the length of Cannery Row. Passes to re-enter are quickly replaced with hand stamps after enterprising souls begin taking them and selling them far down the line. Admission prices on opening day are $7 general, $5 student and senior, and $3 for children.

What A Party!

The celebration includes a parade of marching bands, school floats, mermaids and dancing jellies, 38 entries in all, stretching the length of Cannery Row. Offshore, an aquatic parade consists of a Coast Guard cutter, a Navy ship, several research vessels, the local fishing fleet, and a colorful flotilla of small craft, windsurfers and kayaks. Telegrams arrive from President Reagan and Governor Deukmejian. The festivities end with a fireworks display that night.