World Ocean Day: Local action, global impact 

The New England Aquarium celebrates World Ocean Day with activities that raise awareness about protecting the ocean for future generations on Sunday, June 4, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

During the festivities, the Aquarium will highlight the global conservation initiative to protect 30% of lands, water, and ocean by the year 2030 called 30×30.  

CHECK OUT THE SCHEDULE BELOW:

ON THE PLAZA 

“Ask a Scientist” Booth 

Ask your ocean and animal health questions to Aquarium scientists who will be on Central Wharf Plaza to engage with the public about their work protecting the ocean and its inhabitants. There will be a different theme each hour.

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary

Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary staff will be onsite with their forty-foot-long humpback whale Salt (weather permitting) to share information about their essential work in the sanctuary.

IN THE BUILDING

30×30 Presentations
Learn more about global warming and what we’re doing to help from Aquarium staff, who will share presentations explaining 30×30, Marine Protected Areas, and how taking action at a local level can lead to global impact.

Times/Locations:

Top of the Giant Ocean Tank: 10:0 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 3:00 p.m.
MMC: 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m.
Harbor Seals: 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Penguins: 11:00 a.m.

Marine Protected Area Cart Activity 

At the Temperate Gallery, a tabletop activity will highlight migratory species, tracking where they are in the ocean and why protecting critical areas that impact their survival, such as feeding grounds, nurseries, and more, is essential.

HARBORVIEW TERRACE TENT

Composting Activity with NEAq ClimaTeens
There will be a tabletop activity about the positive impact of composting on climate change and how participants can find composting options in their community. This activity was researched, planned, developed, and delivered by our amazing ClimaTeens!

Volunteer and Internship Programs Information Station 
Want to volunteer or intern with us? Meet members of Aquarium volunteers and interns at the Volunteer and Internship Programs Information Station to get your questions answered!

Marine Art Station with Martin Kalere 
Local artist and UMASS environmental science student, Martin Kalere, will deliver an ocean animal-centered art activity, accompanied by his work. Art lovers and makers can pick up materials and make marine-based art of their own.

Uvida Sustainable Pop-up Shop 
Uvida Shop, a minority and women-owned business, is Boston’s first zero-waste, eco-friendly store. They provide affordable, sustainable, plastic-free household products for improving home health to protect the environment from plastic waste.

Coalition for a Resilient and Inclusive Waterfront 

The Coalition for a Resilient and Inclusive Waterfront’s table will provide information about their alliance of nonprofit organizations working together to address the urgent issues facing Boston’s harbor and rivers, including initiatives like One Waterfront and the Aquarium’s Downtown Waterfront for All. There will also be interactive activities and opportunities to share ideas for activating the 42 acres of the downtown waterfront.

Hispanic Access Foundation: Latino Connections to the Ocean and Coast 

The Hispanic Access Foundation will share information on the vital relationship between Latinos and our oceans and coasts. Through their bilingual environmental and conservation toolkits, they’ll provide a comprehensive guide to the water and climate issues impacting Latino communities.

Marine Protection Area Advocacy Engagement Station 

Visitors, staff, and guests to Central Wharf can record their thoughts on marine protected areas and learn how they can help us achieve 30×30 and positively impact our ocean. This recording booth allows participants to speak directly to their legislators in their own words.

Marine Protected Area Giant Jenga 

This activity helps players consider what protections make a healthy, viable Marine Protected Area, such as fishing regulations, no oil and gas drilling, and more. This game can be self-guided or supported by an aquarium facilitator.