Where Legends Come to Life: Mermaids Return to Wonders of Wildlife

Published February 27, 2026

Where Magic Begins: The Making of a Mermaid

Before the Aquarium Adventure fills with the morning rush of families and field trips, the water is still. Rays drift quietly through their habitats, and soft beams of light ripple across coral landscapes. And somewhere behind the scenes, a mermaid prepares to enter that underwater world. 

For these performers, becoming a mermaid is far more than slipping into a shimmering tail. 

Every movement is rehearsed until it feels instinctive — the slow turn of the hands, the gentle kick that sends a 30‑pound silicone tail sweeping through the water, the serene expression they must hold even when visibility drops to a blur. Before a single guest arrives, they check their gear, steady their breath, and remind themselves why they do this: To bring wonder to a child who has never seen a mermaid, to spark curiosity about the ocean, and to prove — especially to young visitors — that magic and strength can coexist. 

As Wands & Wishes creator and owner Caroline Kauffman explains, “Our work is very similar to ballet — the training involved, and making it look really seamless and beautiful.” It’s a discipline built on breath, calm, and control — a world shaped by imagination but anchored in skill. 

And this March, these remarkable performers return to Wonders of Wildlife. 

Mermaids Are Returning to Wonders of Wildlife This March 

From March 12–29, on select days, Mermaids will glide back into the currents of Springfield, filling the Aquarium with color, movement, and moments families remember long after their visit. 

Meet the Mermaids 

Underwater Encounters in the Great Barrier Reef 

Between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., step up to the Great Barrier Reef exhibit and you may catch a shimmer in the water — a flash of color, a swirl of bubbles, and a mermaid drifting past schools of tropical fish. Their friendly waves, bubble hearts, and ballet‑like movements transform the exhibit into a living fairytale. 

Despite limited visibility underwater, the mermaids remain expressive and calm, thanks to specialized training. With every appearance, they create a gentle, magical moment for guests of all ages. 

Mermaid Cove at Stingray Touch 

In the Shipwreck Aquarium setting, mermaids swim among the gliding rays, creating some of the event’s most whimsical scenes — especially for young guests who can hardly believe what they’re seeing. 

Meet‑and‑Greet in Nature’s Best Photography 

Just steps away, inside the Nature’s Best Photography gallery, families can meet a mermaid resting on her rocky perch. It’s the perfect place for photos and for kids to interact with a mermaid up close. 

Mermaid Member Night 

Valued members are invited to an exclusive first look on Wednesday, March 11, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Dive into an unforgettable evening featuring mesmerizing underwater mermaid performances, up‑close meet‑and‑greets, and magical mermaid‑themed crafts. Don’t forget, this event is free for all members and one night only, so you won’t want to miss it! 

Most guests spend 3–4 hours taking in every appearance, and even longer if they continue into the Wildlife Galleries. 

What It Takes to Become a Modern Mermaid 

Mermaids at Wonders of Wildlife aren’t just performers — they are certified divers and freedivers who travel to AZA‑accredited aquariums nationwide. Each performer must arrive already holding: 

• SCUBA certification 

• Level 1 freediving certification 

Because they perform without tanks or masks, they rely on a discreetly hidden air hose placed within the exhibit. They surface only long enough to take a steady breath before slipping back into character. 

Their tails and accessories are serviced annually and treated with the same care as professional diving equipment. And yes — even mermaids face real‑world challenges. Caroline from Wands & Wishes recalls the time an airline accidentally ran over a mermaid tail on a travel day. 

But every challenge is met with the same purpose: “We show little girls that they can do hard things,” Caroline says. “And we hope to inspire more love for the ocean and the animals in it… True mermaids protect the sea and all its creatures.” 

Event Dates 

The Wands & Wishes Mermaids will appear at Wonders of Wildlife on: 

• Thursday, March 12 – Sunday, March 15 

• Wednesday, March 18 – Sunday, March 22 

• Friday, March 27 – Sunday, March 29 

All performances are included with admission. Members enter free. 

While same‑day tickets may be available, advance purchase is strongly recommended for this popular spring event.