SeaWorld San Diego will start its Summer Spectacular lineup on May 22, 2026, with new nighttime entertainment, a first-ever park drone show, the debut of Shark Encounter, a refreshed Dolphin Adventures show, and a summer concert calendar.
The park announced the slate in a May 7, 2026 press release. The season is built around day-to-night programming, with several offerings starting May 22 and three new nighttime animal presentations beginning June 12.
What starts May 22
The biggest new addition is Ocean of Dreams Drone Show, a 12-minute nighttime spectacular using 600 synchronized drones. SeaWorld says the show will use a soundtrack and aerial formations inspired by marine life, including dolphins, sea otters, sharks, and an orca.
Shark Encounter also opens May 22 in a refreshed format. According to SeaWorld, the exhibit will feature 11 shark species, above-water viewing, educational displays, conservation information, a shark feeding opportunity, and a 180-degree underwater viewing experience where sharks move overhead.
Dolphin Adventures debuts the same day with new music, staging, dolphins, pilot whales, and younger dolphins. SeaWorld is also adding The Wonders of North American Wildlife!, an educational presentation focused on native wildlife, rescue stories, rehabilitation, and conservation.
The May 22 slate also includes Deep Sea Disco!, a nightly dance party under SkyTower lights with the Rhythm of the Reef dancers.
New nighttime animal presentations begin June 12
Beginning June 12, SeaWorld San Diego will add three nighttime animal presentations for the summer season.
- Shamu Celebration: Light Up The Night, featuring killer whales with a conservation-focused presentation.
- Dolphins: Touch the Sky, featuring bottlenose dolphins, storytelling, and music.
- Sea Lions Tonite, which launched in spring and continues with new summer surprises.
Returning shows and concert series
SeaWorld is also bringing back BMX Blast! Powered by BODYARMOR Stunt Show and Pirates Ahoy! The Battle for Mermaid Cove for the summer season.
The 2026 Summer Spectacular Concert Series runs Saturdays at 6 p.m. from June 6 through August 29, except July 4. SeaWorld says concerts are included with park admission, with reserved seating available for purchase.
- June 6: Ying Yang Twins
- June 13: Ginuwine
- June 20: Bow Wow & Dem Franchize Boyz
- June 27: Pop 2000 Tour
- July 11: E-40
- July 18: Ashanti
- July 25: Soulja Boy & Paul Wall
- August 1: Jordin Sparks
- August 8: Too $hort & Warren G
- August 15: Saliva
- August 22: Uncle Kracker
- August 29: Skillet
SeaWorld says Annual Pass Members can make repeat visits during the summer and receive benefits such as savings on merchandise, Quick Queue, reserved seating, and more, depending on pass type.
Source: SeaWorld San Diego
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