Tennessee Aquarium's ODDtober
Guests explore the weird and wonderful side of nature with special spotlights on species such as lumpsuckers, moray eels, and glowing swellsharks. Aquarium educators host seasonally themed programs, and visitors can watch SCUBA divers carve pumpkins underwater while fish swim around them. Guests can also pick up a complimentary event sticker in the gift shop.
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Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Hours
Underwater Pumpkin Carving: every Saturday at 2 p.m.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Chattanooga
Accessibility
All exhibit galleries are fully accessible, with complimentary wheelchairs available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Ask for a free ODDtober sticker in the gift shop while supplies last.
- Download the Aquarium's printable templates if you want to carve an animal-themed pumpkin at home.
- Plan to spend at least two to two-and-a-half hours to tour both the River Journey and Ocean Journey buildings.
Special Events & Promotions
- New for 2026, special spotlights feature Lumpsuckers, Moray Eels, and glowing Swellsharks in the Scuttlebutt Reef gallery.
Links & Contact
Halloween Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can guests wear costumes to ODDtober?
No, costumes are not allowed inside the Aquarium or IMAX 3D Theater, except during the separate Aquascarium special event.
What happens during the underwater pumpkin carving show?
SCUBA divers carve ordinary pumpkins into aquatic jack-o’-lanterns inside the exhibit tanks while curious fish swirl around them.
Are outside snacks and drinks allowed inside the Aquarium?
Coolers and outside food are not permitted, but non-alcoholic beverages with lids, canned soft drinks, and enclosed snacks for small children are allowed.
Is flash photography permitted?
Amateur photography is welcome, but guests must observe signs prohibiting flash photography, particularly around sensitive animals like the octopus.
Are strollers permitted inside the Aquarium?
Strollers are permitted inside the Aquarium galleries, though the facility does not provide stroller rentals.
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