This June, The Shoppes at City of Dreams Sri Lanka is welcoming families, aspiring young artists, and ocean enthusiasts to explore the wonders of the ocean during a special weekend event dedicated to its beauty and significance.
In collaboration with The Pearl Protectors, a prominent marine conservation organization, The Shoppes is set to commemorate World Oceans Day 2026 on June 6 and 7. The event will feature a variety of interactive workshops, creative art activities, and family-oriented events aimed at fostering creativity while raising awareness about the importance of marine protection.
This partnership not only enhances The Shoppes as a shopping venue but also transforms it into a lively community hub where families can bond and engage in enriching experiences that motivate young people to become advocates for ocean conservation.
A key feature of the weekend will be the “Reef Builders” workshops, where children and teenagers will have the opportunity to craft their own cardboard representations of marine creatures, including jellyfish, turtles, sharks, and reef fish. Tailored for two distinct age groups, these sessions will blend storytelling, creativity, and conservation in an enjoyable format. The “Tide Pool Crew” workshop for kids aged 4 to 9 will include story sessions, creature cards, and colorful creations to take home. Meanwhile, the “Deep Reef Crew” for participants aged 10 and older will address real oceanic challenges, species conservation, and marine ecosystems through discussions and hands-on activities.
Additionally, the World Oceans Day Art Competition will provide a platform for participants to showcase their passion for the ocean through various forms of art, including hand-painted pieces and digital creations. The competition invites entries inspired by themes like “Echoes of the Wounded” and “The View from Below,” encouraging artists to reflect on the splendor of marine life and the urgent necessity for its protection. Submissions are currently open and will close on May 31.
World Oceans Day, celebrated annually on June 8, serves as a reminder of the oceans’ vital role in sustaining life on our planet—from oxygen production and climate regulation to supporting global biodiversity and livelihoods. In Sri Lanka, where the ocean is an integral part of the national identity, conservation efforts have become increasingly crucial to preserve marine ecosystems for future generations.
The Pearl Protectors, a leading youth-driven marine conservation group in Sri Lanka, has been pivotal in this initiative, focusing on reducing marine pollution, safeguarding biodiversity, and raising environmental awareness among communities and youth.
Together, The Shoppes and The Pearl Protectors aspire to create an educational, engaging, and unforgettable World Oceans Day celebration, demonstrating that discussions about sustainability can be creative, inclusive, and enjoyable for families.
For more information about the art competition, please visit this link. To register for the workshops, please go to this link.
