Santa Claus has made a splash in Rio de Janeiro this holiday season, taking his festive antics underwater at the AquaRio Marine Aquarium alongside some fascinating marine life.
This unique spectacle begins with Diver Felipe Luna, who assumes the role of Santa Claus in an unexpected setting. The senior animal handler at AquaRio puts on a Santa suit and heads into the depths of the aquarium’s 924,602-gallon tank. Luna, who describes this as a tradition that started as a playful idea among employees, now finds himself a central figure in the aquarium’s Christmas celebration.
Visitors to the aquarium, including nine-year-old Guilherme Martins Matos, express excitement at the sight of Santa swimming with the sharks. Guilherme notes that seeing Santa in a mall was enjoyable, but watching him underwater while feeding fish is even more thrilling. This captivating display occurs during daily feeding times with Luna diving to hand-feed the marine creatures, an activity that draws curiosity and wonder from spectators.
While the encounter promises a memorable experience for children, the affair is equally enchanting for adults, offering a rare glimpse of holiday cheer melded with marine adventure. Luna reflects on the magic of the event, stating it’s unforgettable for onlookers to see Santa feeding a shark by hand.
The underwater Santa event is scheduled daily through December 25 at 1:30 p.m., delighting audiences with each dive. It serves as a remarkable blend of entertainment and tradition at AquaRio, marking its place in Rio de Janeiro’s festive activities.
As the holidays unfold, Santa’s underwater journey at AquaRio Marine Aquarium continues to enchant both young and old, blending tradition with marine wonder.
Source: News4jax
