Sharktoberfest 2024

Each guest will receive a commemorative tasting glass for sampling. Sharktoberfest guests will enjoy Mote Aquarium with live entertainment, food stations, merchandise vendors and special experiences provided by Mote’s Education department. General Admission includes access to Mote Aquarium, beer sampling, and event entertainment. Additional purchase opportunities include event merchandise from local craft vendors and the Mote gift store, a selection of food and cuisine by Deep Sea Diner and Michael’s on East, and a cash bar with limited cocktails, wine, and beer available to purchase.

• A limited number of tickets are available for a private tasting experience that will be held at Mote — in the New Pass Room, on Saturday, January 18th, from 5 to 7 p.m. — prior to the start of Sharktoberfest. Guests for this VIP Tasting Event, presented by 99 Bottles Taproom & Bottle Shop, will sample six selections from local brewers as well as a curated menu of light bites from Pier 22. Guests will enjoy a guided tasting experience where representatives from each brewery will provide insight into the creation of each brew. At the completion of the VIP Tasting experience, guests will enter the Aquarium for the start of the Sharktoberfest Main Event.

VIP tickets include access to both the VIP Tasting (held prior to the main event) and the Sharktoberfest Main Event (Includes access to Mote Aquarium, beer sampling, and event entertainment. Additional purchase opportunities include event merchandise from local craft vendors and the Mote gift store, a selection of food and cuisine by Deep Sea Diner and Michael’s on East, and a cash bar with limited cocktails, wine, and beer available to purchase).

• Name and link on event website and Facebook event page
• Two complimentary general admission tickets and sample glasses

• Opportunity to participate as a vendor
• Logo (or name) on all event print collateral*
• Logo (or name) and link on event website and Facebook event page
• Two complimentary general admission tickets and sample glasses

*Sponsorship must be secured prior to print deadline in order to be included in program & other collateral.

• Opportunity to participate as a vendor
• Logo (or name) on staff shirts, beer list & map
• Logo (or name) on all event print collateral*
• Logo (or name) and link on event website and Facebook event page
• Recognition in event press release*
• Six complimentary general admission tickets and sample glasses

*Sponsorship must be secured prior to print deadline in order to be included in program & other collateral.

Mote Gift Shop – The Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium Gift Shop will be open during Sharktoberfest! 

Other Vendors:

Kettle of Fish

Akiko Face Painting

Cirque Vertigo

Do I need to bring my ticket to the event?

Please print your ticket confirmation email, save your tickets to your mobile wallet or bring a digital copy of your ticket confirmation email to be guaranteed entry to Sharktoberfest. If you have misplaced your ticket(s), please email guestservices@mote.org  for support.

What time should I arrive?

Doors will open for the main event at 7:00pm. We suggest arriving a little early to avoid heavy traffic and lines for check in.

Can I show up late?

Yes, check in will remain open throughout the duration of the event.

Do you allow re-entry?

We will not allow re-entry to the event for safety and security purposes.

Will the event be canceled if it rains?

No! Sharktoberfest will take place at Mote Aquarium which consists of indoor aquarium exhibits and covered, outdoor aquarium exhibits. Rain will not affect the event and you should plan to attend, rain or shine.

Where should I park?

Ample parking is available in the Main Aquarium parking lot at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway Sarasota FL 34236. Additional overflow parking is available at Ken Thompson Park (including the boat ramp and City Island park.) We strongly encourage carpooling or using a rideshare service if you plan to consume alcohol during the event. Do not drink and drive. 

What should I wear?

Sharktoberfest attire is casual and comfortable.

What is included with my ticket purchase?

-General Admission includes access to Mote Aquarium, beer sampling and event entertainment. Additional purchase opportunities: event merchandise, food vendors and cash bar (with limited cocktails, wine and beer available to purchase.)

-VIP Tasting Tickets include access to the two-hour VIP tasting from 5 to 7pm. VIP Tasting Tickets also include access to Sharktoberfest from 7 to 10pm (access to Mote Aquarium, beer sampling and event entertainment. Additional purchase opportunities: event merchandise, food vendors and cash bar with limited cocktails, wine and beer available to purchase.)

Can I purchase a discounted ticket if I don’t plan to sample the beer?

We do not offer a discounted ticket. All guests must purchase a General Admission ticket for access to Sharktoberfest.

Can I attend if I am under 21 or may I buy a ticket for someone under 21?

Sharktoberfest is a 21 and up event and a valid photo ID will be required for entry.

What is there to do at Sharktoberfest?

All exhibits in the Main Aquarium will be open during Sharktoberfest. You can also shop our merchandise vendors, including the Mote Gift Shop. Food vendors will be stationed around the Aquarium with selections for purchase. Entertainment will include live music and hands-on educational activities.

Will there be seating available at Sharktoberfest?

Yes, limited seating will be available on a first come first served basis. There is no reserved seating for Sharktoberfest. Seating options include benches and small tables.

Can I bring my dog or other pet?

Mote will allow entry to service dogs as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines. Pets are prohibited.

Are there restrooms?

Yes, Mote Aquarium restrooms will be available for the duration of the event.

Are there hotels nearby?

Yes, please click here for more details:

Can we bring food and beverage into the festival?

No, only food and beverages provided by approved vendors are allowed into Mote Aquarium during Sharktoberfest (water is allowed).

Is the festival accessible for guests with disabilities?

Several manual wheelchairs are available for free at Mote Aquarium on a first come, first served basis. Mote has been designated an Autism Friendly Business by CARD at University of South Florida, and our Aquarium offers a free, downloadable Sensory Guide to help you prepare for your visit. Also, a limited number of sensory-friendly backpacks are available for check-out (with ID exchange) at the front desk.

Is there an ATM?

No. The closest ATM is located at St. Armand’s Circle.

What items are prohibited to bring into the Aquarium?

The following items are not permitted on Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium grounds for the safety of our animals and guests: Cigarettes, Cigars and E-Cigarettes (in all buildings except in designated outdoor areas), weapons or firearms per Florida Statutes Section 790.06(12) {firearms are not allowed at events with alcohol provisions}, any hazardous items or materials, balloons, plastic straws, food and beverages not provided by approved vendors (water and baby food/formula is allowed), or any other items deemed to be a safety hazard or that may be used to engage in prohibited activities.

How do I stay up to date on Sharktoberfest announcements?

Please RSVP to the Facebook Event Page to be informed of event updates!

I have a question that wasn’t answered here, now what?

Please email events@mote.org to submit any additional questions you have.