In the heart of the industrial Midwest, where the urban landscape rarely hints at the depths of the ocean, the Greater Cleveland Aquarium transforms into an arena celebrating some of the most mysterious creatures of nature. Fin Fest, an annual event running until August 5th, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the world of sharks and rays — predators that evoke both fascination and fear, yet whose fates hang in the balance due to human activity. This festival isn't just entertainment but also a call to action, combining an interactive experience with a serious message about protecting marine ecosystems.
This year's Fin Fest offers visitors a unique opportunity to get up close with four species of sharks living in the spacious aquariums of the facility. From conversations with scuba divers who swim daily alongside these majestic creatures to feeding demonstrations — the event program is designed to dispel myths and showcase the role of sharks as key regulators of oceanic ecosystems. Equally notable are rays, whose graceful movements and resemblance to sharks highlight evolutionary links between these species. Guests can not only observe ray feedings but also touch them, feeling their unique textures firsthand.
"Sharks are not just predators; they are the top of the food chain in the ocean," notes Stephanie White, Director of the Greater Cleveland Aquarium, with a passion that reflects her dedication to conservation. "But their numbers are decreasing at an alarming rate. Bycatch, overfishing, the cruel practice of finning, habitat loss, and climate change are challenges we can overcome if we work together."
According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, over a third of shark and ray species are threatened with extinction. This grim statistic underpins the mission of Fin Fest, which aims not only to entertain but also to raise awareness about the fragility of marine ecosystems. Aquarium curators, who work with these animals every day, share insider knowledge about their behavior and the challenges they face in the wild. Visitors learn how individual actions — from reducing plastic waste to supporting sustainable fishing — can have a global impact.
The festival also adds a touch of fun to attract a broader audience. For example, anyone dressed in shark-themed attire automatically participates in a raffle for a gift basket — a small gesture that fosters a sense of community among visitors. Special events included in the regular ticket price range from children’s workshops to lectures on marine biodiversity, making Fin Fest accessible for all age groups.
Behind the vibrant exhibits and interactive activities lies a deeper message. The Greater Cleveland Aquarium, located in a city far from oceanic expanses, reminds us that the fate of marine species depends on global responsibility. Fin Fest is not only a celebration but also a call for each of us to rethink our impact on the planet. While visitors watch the graceful movements of rays or listen to diver stories, they receive a reminder: the ocean is not an abstract distant element but a living system that needs our protection.
