It’s not every day you see Santa Claus in flippers, unless — of course — you visit the Tennessee Aquarium during the annual Holidays Under the Peaks celebration.
Weekend guests exploring the River Journey building between Nov. 30 and Dec. 22, 2024, can catch a glimpse of the jolly old elf swimming alongside Arapaima and Paddlefish, waving to children through the acrylic, and spreading holiday cheer from inside the River Giants and Tennessee River exhibits.
An enthusiastic diver, Santa takes a break from his holiday hullabaloo every December to pay a visit to the Aquarium as his alter alias, “SCUBA Claus.” This year, Riverwatch caught up with Saint Nick as he was getting suited up to chat about how he balances creating so many magical underwater memories with his demanding schedule leading up to the Big Night.
Santa, you’re kind of a busy guy this time of year. How do you find the time to slip into a wetsuit and put in appearances as SCUBA Claus?
Ho ho ho! Believe it or not, holiday magic isn’t just for delivering presents. I use a little of that magic to help me balance my schedule. Plus, I’ve got a great team of elves and reindeer holding down the North Pole while I’m here. I always say that spreading joy isn’t limited to just one night — it’s a year-round effort! And honestly, who wouldn’t want to take a quick break from the cold to dive into warmer waters?
Warmer waters? So you’re saying you don’t mind trading in snow for SCUBA tanks?
Exactly! I love the snowy North Pole, but that water is cold, not to mention all that ice you have to dig through to reach it. I have to put on a dry suit every time. Getting to swim with giant Arapaima or clouds of sunfish is a completely different kind of wonderland! It’s like a little vacation during all the holiday hustle and bustle. Plus, it’s a chance to connect with folks in a unique way. Seeing kids’ faces light up when they spot Santa underwater? That’s priceless!
Okay, let’s get into the big question. Why SCUBA diving? How did that even come about?
I’m always looking for creative ways to bring holiday cheer. One day, I was visiting Chattanooga incognito, and the thought hit me: “What if Santa could greet kids underwater?” The Aquarium has a great volunteer diver program, so I decided to throw my red hat into the ring.
Diving can be such a magical, unexpected experience. And let’s face it, the reindeer and I have spent centuries traveling across every inch of the Earth, so it was exciting to get a new perspective of life below the surface! Swimming with giant stingrays and turtles? Ho ho ho! What’s not to love? (And I have to admit, it’s definitely more exciting than taking gift requests at the mall.)
Can you still hear wishes from underwater?
Of course! More Santa magic, you see? Just whisper at the acrylic; I promise it’ll come through loud and clear.
What’s your favorite part of the experience?
Oh, it has to be the reactions. When I wave to someone through the acrylic and they realize it’s Santa Claus, it’s pure joy (for them and for me)! There’s something about seeing a familiar face in an unfamiliar place that’s truly unforgettable. Plus, I love chatting with the Aquarium staff in between dives. I think they love aquatic life and wildlife conservation as much as my elves like making toys!
Speaking of conservation, SCUBA Claus dives in the Aquarium’s two largest freshwater exhibits. Does Santa have a message for his fans about why freshwater is important?
Absolutely! I love being part of Holidays Under the Peaks because it’s not just about the season; it’s about celebrating our connection to nature. We all rely on freshwater — even old Saint Nick — so it falls on all of us to care for our waterways. Whether by recycling, reducing waste, or supporting organizations that protect aquatic life, we can all do our part to keep our rivers, lakes, and streams merry and bright!
Last question: What’s on Santa’s wish list this year?
My wish list is simple: more smiles, more kindness, and a little extra magic for everyone. And maybe a shiny new snorkel. Mine’s starting to look a little worse for wear!
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Readers who hope to spot SCUBA Claus in action can see him diving in either the River Giants or Tennessee River exhibits at 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays between Nov. 30 and Dec, 22, 2024. The Aquarium is closed on Christmas Day (Dec. 25). For more information about the special activities and trappings during Holidays Under the Peaks, visit tnaqua.org/holidays.
