Koi Fest 2026 Returns Bigger Than Ever
Apr 6th 2026
Milford, NJ – Fitz's Fish Ponds proudly announces the return of Koi Fest 2026, taking place Friday, August 21, and Saturday, August 22, 2026, at its headquarters in Milford, New Jersey. Now in its fifth year, Koi Fest has grown into one of the most dynamic koi and pond lifestyle events in the country — and 2026 expands into a full weekend experience.
From exclusive behind-the-scenes tours to a sanctioned koi show and celebratory banquet, Koi Fest 2026 is set to unite hobbyists, collectors, industry professionals, and families for two days of education, entertainment, and elevated koi culture.
Friday, August 21 — Special Access Tour Day
Koi Fest weekend begins with a limited-ticket Special Access Tour Day on Friday. This premium experience offers attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the Fitz’s Fish Ponds facility, including:
- Guided tours of koi holding systems.
- In-depth discussions on filtration, importing, and koi selection.
- Access to select koi offerings.
- Early networking with industry leaders and serious hobbyists.
This intimate experience is designed for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a deeper dive into koi operations and craftsmanship.
Saturday, August 22 — Koi Fest Main Event
The main festival opens Saturday at 10:00 AM (9:00 AM for VIP guests) and delivers a full day of excitement across the grounds.
Ticket Options
General Admission – FREE (with pre-registration): Includes access to vendor exhibits, koi viewing areas, demonstrations, giveaways, and family activities.
VIP Admission: Includes early access, exclusive merchandise, premium parking, and first access to select koi.
Advance registration is strongly encouraged.
Tri-State ZNA Koi Show at Koi Fest
Koi Fest 2026 will proudly host the Tri-State ZNA Koi Show, bringing competitive koi exhibition directly into the heart of the festival.
The Tri-State Chapter of Zen Nippon Airinkai (ZNA) continues its mission to preserve and promote the highest standards of Nishikigoi appreciation. Exhibitors from across the region will showcase exceptional koi, judged according to traditional Japanese standards.
Attendees will have the rare opportunity to:
- View show-quality koi up close.
- Watch live judging.
- Engage with serious hobbyists and breeders.
- Experience authentic koi show culture within a festival setting.
The integration of the ZNA elevates Koi Fest beyond a celebration — positioning it as a true destination for koi excellence.
What to Expect Throughout the Festival
- Newly imported Japanese koi available for viewing and purchase.
- Educational talks and live demonstrations.
- Industry-leading manufacturers showcasing the latest pond and filtration technology.
- Vendor marketplace.
- Giveaways and raffle prizes.
- Kid-friendly activities.
- Food trucks and local vendors.
- Community meet-ups and networking.
From first-time pond owners to advanced collectors, Koi Fest offers something for every level of passion.
Vendor Booth Registration Now Open
Vendor booth registration for Koi Fest 2026 is officially open.
Manufacturers, distributors, artisans, lifestyle brands, and pond industry partners are invited to secure their space now. With attendance growing year after year, booth space is expected to sell out quickly.
Vendor packages include:
- Designated booth space.
- Exposure to thousands of targeted pond and outdoor living enthusiasts.
- Marketing promotion across Fitz’s Fish Ponds platforms.
- Direct engagement with hobbyists, contractors, and collectors.
Interested vendors are encouraged to register early for prime placement.
Saturday Night Banquet Celebration
Following the conclusion of Koi Fest on Saturday evening, guests are invited to attend the official Koi Fest Banquet.
The banquet provides an elevated close to the weekend and includes:
- Recognition of Tri-State ZNA Koi Show award winners.
- Community celebration and networking.
- Dinner and festivities.
- A chance to gather with fellow enthusiasts in a more intimate setting.
The banquet has become a signature component of Koi Fest weekend — celebrating both craftsmanship and camaraderie.
Event Details
Koi Fest 2026
Friday, August 21 – Special Access Tour Day
Saturday, August 22 – Koi Fest + Tri-State ZNA Koi Show
Saturday Evening – Koi Fest Banquet Fitz’s Fish Ponds Headquarters, Milford, New Jersey
Registration for attendees, VIP access, Special Tour Day, banquet tickets, ZNA show entries, and vendor booths is now live.
Koi Fest 2026 continues to elevate what a pond event can be, blending show-quality koi, industry innovation, and community celebration into one unforgettable weekend.
