Celebrating Whale Shark Day with Creativity and Environmental Education

Tulum, August 29, 2025 — Every year on August 30, more than 40 countries mark International Whale Shark Day, a date established in 2008 to raise awareness about the world’s largest fish and the threats it faces—from illegal fishing and pollution to the impacts of unsustainable tourism.

This year, the Eco-Bahía Foundation joined the global commemoration with an initiative that blended environmental education with artistic expression. The foundation hosted the first edition of COLABOR-ARTE, a drawing and painting contest designed to inspire appreciation for the whale shark and highlight the importance of marine conservation.

A total of 21 participants—including employees from the Bahia Principe hotel and the Tulum Country Club residential community, along with their children—took part in the contest. Fourteen adults and seven children submitted original artwork celebrating the beauty and significance of the whale shark.

On August 27, the entries were displayed in Tulum, where 60 attendees gathered for an exhibition that fostered creativity, reflection, and community connection. The event culminated in an awards ceremony recognizing the top three winners in both adult and children’s categories. Organizers emphasized that each brushstroke served as a reminder that art can inspire respect and care for the natural world, echoing the foundation’s motto: “Protect, Share, and Love.”

“At Eco-Bahía, we firmly believe that environmental education is the foundation for protecting our planet. Through art and creativity, we can raise awareness about the importance of species like the whale shark and encourage a culture of respect for nature,” said Luis Verdín, Manager of the Eco-Bahía Foundation.

The event underscored how community-driven initiatives can complement conservation efforts, bringing together families and individuals to reflect on the urgent need to safeguard one of the ocean’s most iconic species.

The Eco-Bahía Foundation continues to invite the public to support its work in protecting marine life and ecosystems. Donations can be made through the organization’s official website: https://eco-bahia.com/colabora.