The 2026 Goldfish Show at Koi Fest is an inaugural Goldfish Council (TGC)-sanctioned competition and exhibit hosted by Fitz's Fish Ponds and The Goldfish Council. The event brings together goldfish hobbyists, breeders and enthusiasts from across the country to showcase and celebrate some of the finest goldfish in the hobby.

The Goldfish Show will take place during Koi Fest on August 21-22, 2026. Official judging and public viewing will take place on Saturday, August 22, 2026.

Exhibitors should enter their Goldfish on Friday August 21st between the hours of 12-4pm. (Exhibitors are also invited to attend the ticketed Special Access Dinner on Aug 21st from 5-9pm).

Fitz's Fish Ponds Koi Farm
610 Little York Mount Pleasant Road
Milford, NJ 08848

Yes. The Goldfish Show exhibit is open to all Koi Fest attendees during event hours.

Click the "Get Tickets/Register" button on the event page and complete the online registration process.

The registration deadline is August 7, 2026.

Each household may reserve up to five (5) tanks.

Exhibitors may enter up to four (4) goldfish per tank.

Yes. There are only 24 show tanks available. Tank assignments will be made based on registration order and availability.

Absolutely. New exhibitors are encouraged to participate. The event is designed to be welcoming to both experienced competitors and first-time entrants.

Yes. All entries must comply with Goldfish Council show standards, health requirements and exhibition guidelines.

Certified Goldfish Council judges will evaluate fish using official Goldfish Council standards and scorecards.

Open-reasoning judging allows spectators to listen as judges discuss the strengths, characteristics and evaluation criteria for each fish. This provides a unique educational opportunity for attendees.

Yes. Visitors are welcome to observe the judging process. We simply ask that everyone remain respectful of the judges' workspace and avoid interruptions.

Judging is expected to begin at approximately 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, August 22.

Awards may include:

• Best in Show (Grand Champion)
• The Goldfish Council Award
• Reserve Grand Champion
• Variety Awards
• Specialty Awards
• Audience Choice Awards

Awards will be presented following the completion of judging and during the Koi Fest Awards Banquet.

Yes. The 2026 Awards Banquet will take place on Saturday, August 22, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The banquet will feature award presentations for both the 2026 Goldfish Show and the Tri-State ZNA Koi Show. Guests will enjoy an evening celebrating the hobby, exhibitors and award-winning fish.

Yes. Banquet tickets can be purchased through the event registration page.

Visitors may see a variety of goldfish including:

• Ranchu
• Oranda
• Ryukin
• Veiltail
• Butterfly Goldfish
• Telescope-Eye Varieties
• Single-Tail Goldfish

Yes. The event is designed to be educational and will provide opportunities to learn about breed standards, judging criteria and goldfish care.

Yes. The vendor area will be open throughout Koi Fest and feature a variety of products and services.

Vendors may offer:

• Goldfish
• Koi
• Aquatic Plants
• Pond Supplies
• Aquarium Products
• Artwork and Collectibles
• Specialty Fish-Keeping Equipment

Interested vendors can email koifest@fitzfishponds.com for more information.

Yes. The Goldfish Show is one of the featured attractions of Koi Fest 2026.

Attendees can also enjoy:

• Tri-State ZNA Koi Show
• Japanese-Style Koi Auction
• Live Music
• Food Vendors
• Family Activities
• Giveaways and Raffles
• Educational Exhibits
• Vendor Marketplace

Visit the Koi Fest event page for a full schedule, ticket information and event details.

Yes. Special Koi Fest hotel room blocks and accommodation information are available through the event website.

Visit the Koi Fest hotel accommodations page for current hotel options and booking information.

For additional information, registration questions or vendor inquiries, please contact:
koifest@fitzfishponds.com
We look forward to welcoming you to the inaugural Goldfish Show at Koi Fest 2026!