Saturday, March 14, 2026
12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Explore ocean science, astronomy, and hands-on discovery during the Planetarium and Aquarium Open House at Orange Coast College. This free community event invites visitors to explore the Dennis Kelly Aquarium, meet marine animals, and participate in interactive science activities.
Guests can enjoy free planetarium shows, visit touch tanks, watch animal feeding demonstrations, and take part in arts and crafts stations and face painting. Interactive booths hosted by local organizations will highlight ecological and environmental projects happening throughout the region.
The event will also feature the premiere of Wayfinders: Waves, Winds, and Stars, a planetarium show that explores traditional Polynesian navigation. The fulldome program places viewers aboard the voyaging canoe Hōkūleʻa while learning how ocean waves, winds, and the night sky guided voyagers across the Pacific.
Admission is free. Reservations are encouraged to help estimate attendance, but activities and planetarium shows are available on a first-come, first-served basis and may have limited capacity.
Is the event free?
Yes. Event is free.
Where is the event located?
Orange Coast College Planetarium & Dennis Kelly Aquarium in Costa Mesa, California.
Do tickets or reservations require advance booking?
Reservations are encouraged but do not guarantee participation in specific activities.
Before You Go: Visit Orange Coast College for event updates and RSVP details. Kidsguide is an independent community resource helping families discover fun events across Southern California.
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