If you want to enter one of the most prestigious and lucrative live aquascaping contests at the best aquarium festival in North America, you’ve come to the right place! Selected contestants have 12 hours over two days to create a masterpiece alongside other top scapers. Oh, and there’s cash prizes! Sound good?

Apply now!

Application for this contest is open to all! But the field of aquascapers will be selected by Aquashella event organizers. And it is a LIVE contest, so you must be present to participate. Make sure you fill out the form completely and we’ll be in touch. Applications will no longer be accepted 30 days prior to the event or when the field is filled.

Aquashella Aquascaping Contest Application
What event(s) would you like to compete in?
Contact Name
Contact Name
First
Last
If selected:
If I am NOT selected to compete, I would be interested in:

Team Information

Team Member 2
Team Member 2
First Name
Last Name

Aquascaping Work Samples

Maximum file size: 67.11MB

Contest Entrance Rules and Submission Criteria

Contest Entrance Rules and Submission Criteria:

  • The contest application is open to all aquascapers!
  • Teams are allowed, Note that if a team wins the grand prize, there is only 1 prize, and it is up to the team to determine how the items and winnings are distributed. 
  • Applications will be evaluated by our internal teams, with 12 entries selected to compete
  • Contestants are responsible for their own travel expenses.
  • Aquashella Aquarium Festival and its assigns hold all rights to submission materials and copyrights transfer upon submission to allow for the festival to promote and evaluate all entries.

Recording Consent Policy

Recording Policy:

Thank you for choosing to attend Aquashella. We are excited to have you join us. As part of our event management and promotional activities, we may record audio, video, or photographic content during the event. By entering the event premises, you are consenting to the recording and potential use of your image and voice as described in this policy.

Scope: This policy applies to all attendees, including but not limited to participants, speakers, sponsors, organizers, and any other individuals present at the event.

Recording Definition: Recording includes any form of audio, video, or photographic capturing of the event, sessions, workshops, presentations, and related activities.

Consent by Entry: By entering the event premises, you grant explicit consent to being recorded in any event-related content. This includes, but is not limited to, presentations, sessions, workshops, activities, and any other aspects of the event.

Purpose of Recording: The recorded content may be used for promotional, educational, archival, or any other lawful purpose related to the event. It may be shared on event-related websites, social media channels, publications, or future event promotions.

Revocation of Consent: If you have concerns about being recorded, you have the option to avoid areas where recording is taking place or to inform the event organizers of your preference. However, please note that certain event areas may be designated as recording zones, and avoiding these zones may limit your access to specific event activities.

Minor Participants: For participants who are minors (under 18 years of age), their parent or legal guardian’s presence and consent may be required for entry and to grant consent to being recorded.

Third-Party Rights: Attendees must not record, photograph, or share content that infringes on the rights of third parties, including intellectual property rights, trademarks, or copyrighted materials.

Event Organizer’s Rights: The event organizers hold the right to refuse entry to individuals who do not consent to being recorded or who do not comply with the terms of this policy.

Responsibility for Content: The event organizers will make reasonable efforts to protect the recorded content’s privacy and security. However, they are not liable for the actions of attendees who may independently record, distribute, or misuse any event-related content.

Contact Information:

If you have any questions or concerns regarding this policy or wish to discuss your preferences related to recording, please contact the event organizers at [Organizer Contact Email/Phone].

Date of Policy Acceptance:

By entering the event premises, you acknowledge that you have read and understood this Event Recording Consent Policy and consent to being recorded as described herein.

Contestant Code of Conduct

Aquashella Contestant Code of Conduct

Welcome, contestants, to Aquashella, where you have the exciting opportunity to share your passion and expertise with a vibrant audience. To maintain a welcoming environment and ensure everyone enjoys a positive experience – from attendees to vendors and staff – we’ve established this Code of Conduct specifically for contestants. By abiding by these guidelines, you help uphold Aquashella’s standards of professionalism and integrity.

Professionalism:

  • Present yourself professionally in all interactions with attendees, vendors, and staff.
  • Arrive on time and honor the allocated time slots.

Respect for Attendees:

  • Treat all attendees with respect and courtesy, regardless of their level of expertise.
  • Embrace questions and engage with the audience in a constructive manner.
  • Avoid using language or content that could be offensive, discriminatory, or inappropriate.

Professional Conduct:

  • Refrain from any behavior that could be considered unprofessional, offensive, or disruptive.
  • Steer clear of controversial topics that may cause unnecessary conflict.

Compliance with Event Guidelines:

  • Familiarize yourself with Aquashella’s guidelines and follow any instructions from organizers.
  • Coordinate with event staff for any technical or logistical needs related to your presentation.

Alcohol and Substance Use:

  • If alcohol is served, consume it responsibly and considerate of others.
  • The use of illegal substances during the event is strictly prohibited.

Dress Code:

  • Dress appropriately for the event and your presentation, avoiding unauthorized logos or branding.

Reporting Issues:

  • Promptly report any technical or logistical issues to event staff.
  • Report any violations of the Code of Conduct to designated staff members.

Thank you for agreeing to abide by the Aquashella Contestant Code of Conduct. Your dedication to professionalism, respect, and inclusivity contributes to the success of our event, providing a positive and enriching experience for all. We eagerly anticipate your engaging and inspiring participation at Aquashella.

Contest details

It’s important that aquascapers can be present for as much of the contest as possible. Here is a basic schedule of the event. Scaping has been scheduled during show hours to allow attendees to watch the process, and interact with aquascapers as you are assembling your entry. Upon selection additional details will be provided.

Contest Schedule (Subject to change)

Friday
1:30 pm — Kick-off meeting with contestants and judges
2:00-6:00 pm — Aquascaping session
6:00-7:00 pm — Clean up area

Saturday
9:00-5:00 pm — Aquascaping session
5:00-6:00 pm — Clean up area
6:00 pm — Judging begins

Sunday
9:00 am — Water changes and tank touch-ups for the showcase day
10:30 am — Awards announced
3:00 pm — People’s Choice Award announced

Travel

Contestants are responsible for their own travel expenses.

High honors, legendary status and cash!

Grand Champion — $1000
Second Place — $500
Third Place — $250
Fourth and Fifth Place — On-stage recognition and high fives

Plus awards will be given at the award ceremony for exemplary work in these categories:

  • Best use of Depth and Space
  • Best use of Plants
  • Best use of Hardscape
  • Most Creative

FAQs

Q: What happens to the finished aquascapes?
All final scapes and equipment are property of Aquashella and will be available for purchase via silent auction.

Q: Do I have to pay to get into the event?
Each contestant (including team members) will receive a full conference badge for admission to the exhibit hall floor.

Q: What is provided?
Everything you need to make a beautiful aquascape! The following is provided:

  • Hardscape materials (a variety of stone and driftwood)
  • Substrate (soil and sand)
  • Live plants
  • Hardware (aquarium, stand, light, filtration, and aquascaping tools)
  • Electricity
  • Water

THE #1 EVENT FOR AQUARISTS

APPLY
Creator Application Speaker Application Vendor Application Volunteer Application
Copyright © 2026 Aquashella. All rights reserved.

CHICAGO EVENT SCHEDULE

September 26th & 27th, 2026
Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center
Note: Schedule of Events May Change

Saturday

Time
Festival Floor
Speaker Stage
Feature Stage
10:00am
VIP Entry


10:15am



10:30am

Aquariums and Their Effects on Mental-Wellbeing w/ Evan Johnson, Founder, Ivan the Angelfish
VIP Meet & Greet w/Creators @ 10:30!
11:00am
11 am Entry
Aquashella Masterclass w/ Yusuke Homma
Speed Scaping Round 1
12:00pm
12 pm Entry
Aquashella Masterclass continued
Saltwater Jeopardy LIVE!
1:00pm
1 pm Entry

Kids Aquascaping Contest sponsored by Pet Supplies Plus
1:15pm

Igniting Your Success: Live Coral Sales and Marketing Secrets w/ Bobby Moon, Kush Corals

1:30pm


Christa's Shrimp Special w/ Christa Caneda
2:00pm
2 pm Entry
Aquashella Masterclass - Planting w/ Yusuke Homma
Kids Terrascaping Contest sponsored by Custom Cages  & Vision Cages
3:00pm
3 pm or later Entry

Live Book Reading - Duncan's Reef Rescue w/ Remy
3:15pm

Panel Discussion: Current Pressures on the Aquarium Trade w/ Pet Advocacy Network & USAqua
Speed Scaping Round 2
3:45pm

CO2 in Freshwater Aquariums w/ Chantz Cramer, Biotype One/Badfish Florida
4:00pm



4:30pm

Aquarium Business w/ Brian Levinson, Tank it Easy

5:00pm
Charity Raffle begins after 5pm presentation wraps


6:00pm
Festival Close






Sunday

Time
Festival Floor
Speaker Stage
Feature Stage
10:00am
VIP Entry


10:15am


VIP Meet & Greet w/ Creators
10:30am

Aquascaping Masterclass Q&A at Aqua Design Amano Booth #92
11:00am
11 am Entry


11:30am

Aquashella Aquascaping Contest Awards
Speed Scaping Elimination Round 3
12:00pm
12 pm Entry
From Beach Dreams to Giant Installations, a Saltwater Keeper's Journey w/ Frank Aguirre, Professional Aquarist

12:15pm


Speed Scaping Championship!
12:45pm

Discovery and Development of New Strains & Colors of Tropical Fish w/ Phil Marraccini formerly of Summerland Tropical Fish Farms
Kids Aquascaping Contest sponsored by Pet Supplies Plus
1:00pm
1 pm Entry


1:30pm

Ethics and Best Management Practices for the Home Breeder w/ Jody Reed Uncle Joes Fish Shed
SHIZUKU Workshop presented by Aqua Design Amano
2:00pm
2 pm and later Entry

SHIZUKU workshop continued
2:15pm

No Filter Aquariums w/ Lucas Bretz, LRB Aquatics

3:00pm

Neocaridina & Caridina Shrimp Top Breeder Insights w/ Bene Tay, Shrimp Sanctuary
Freshwater Jeopardy LIVE!
4:00pm
Charity Raffle


5:00pm
Festival Close

NEW JERSEY EVENT SCHEDULE

September 12th & 13th, 2026
New Jersey Convention Center, Edison
Note: Schedule of Events May Change

Saturday

Time
Festival Floor
Speaker Stage
Feature Stage
10:00am
VIP Entry
VIP Meet & Greet with Creators at 10:15am


VIP Meet & Greet w/Creators @10:30am
10:30am
Fishin’ For Knowledge: Our Favorite Fish in Science w/ Gettin' Fishy With it Podcast
Live DJ!
11:00am
11am Entry
Aquashella Aquascaping Masterclass w/ Daichi Araki, Presentation, Substrate, and Hardscape
Freshwater Jeopardy LIVE!
12:00pm
12 pm Entry
Aquashella Aquascaping Masterclass w/ Daichi Araki, Presentation, Substrate, and Hardscape continued
Speed Scaping Contest - Round 1
1:00pm
1 pm Entry
What are Competitive Koi? Learn What it Takes to Win w/ Fitz's Fish Ponds
Diverman Jeopardy ... Live underwater?
2:00pm
2 pm Entry
Aquashella Aquascaping Masterclass w/ Daichi Araki, Planting
Speed Scaping Contest - Round 2
3:00pm
3 pm and later Entry
What the L? An Introduction to Plecos w/ Sabu Yamamoto, Saburai Aquatics
3:45pm

Panel Discussion: Current Pressures on the Aquarium Trade w/ Pet Advocacy Network and USAqua
Diverman Show - Live Interviews
4:30pm

Building a Legacy w/ Lori Barczyk, CEO/Founder, Legasea Aquarium and The Reptarium
5:00pm
Charity Raffle


6:00pm
Festival Close


Sunday

Time
Festival Floor
Speaker Stage
Feature Stage
10:00am
VIP Entry

VIP Meet & Greet w/Creators @ 10:15am
11:00am
11 am Entry
Aquashella Aquascaping Contest Awards
Speed Scaping Contest Round 3
12:00pm
12 pm Entry
The Coral Food Nutrition Pyramid w/ Vanessa Glass, Home Brew Live Feeds
Speed Scaping Championships
12:45pm

Ethics and Best Management Practices for the Home Breeder w/ Jody Reed Uncle Joes Fish Shed
Diverman Show and Tell
1:00pm
1 pm Entry


1:30pm

History & Development of the Tropical Fish Hobby - Livebearers! w/ Phil Marraccini formerly of Summerland Tropical Fish Farms
SHIZUKU Workshop Begins
2:00pm
2 pm and later Entry

SHIZUKU Workshop
2:15pm

Natural Aquarium Methods w/ Lou "Father Fish" Maxwell
SHIZUKU Workshop
3:00pm
The Messy Reality of Making Fish Food w/ Katrine, Kats Aquatics
Saltwater Jeopardy
3:30pm


Diverman Show and Tell
4:00pm
Charity Raffle


5:00pm
Festival Close


DALLAS EVENT SCHEDULE

May 16th and 17th, 2026
Dallas Market Hall
Note: Schedule of Events May Change

Saturday

Time
Festival Floor
Speaker Stage
Feature Stage
10:00am
VIP Entry

VIP Meet & Greet w/Creators @ 10:30am
11:00am
11 am Entry
Fish Tank vs Planted Aquariums, What Wins? w/ Lucas Bretz, LRB Aquatics
Live DJ!
12:00pm
12 pm Entry
CANCELLED - Building a Legacy w/ Lori Barczyk, LegaSea Aquarium & The Reptarium
Live DJ!
1:00pm
1 pm Entry
The Importance of Advocacy in the Hobby w/ Panelists from Pet Advocacy Network and USAqua
Open Mic - Tank Roast!
2:00pm
2 pm Entry
Experience the Diverse World of Macro Algae w/ Amanda Tamillo, The MacroLady
Kids Terrascaping with Vision Cages/Custom Cages
3:00pm
3 pm or later Entry
Be Successful Culturing Phytoplanton (Workshop) w/ Skyler Nelson, Reef Legends
Saltwater Jeopary Live!
4:00pm

Keepin' it Clean, Dipping and Coral Pest Inspections w/ Marc Levenson, Melev's Reef
Live DJ!
5:00pm
Charity Raffle


6:00pm
Festival Close


Sunday

Time
Festival Floor
Speaker Stage
Feature Stage
10:00am
VIP Entry

VIP Meet & Greet w/Creators @ 10:15am
11:00am
11 am Entry
Aquashella Aquascaping Contest Awards
Live DJ!
12:00pm
12 pm Entry
Discover the world of Crested Geckos w/ Kristen Hailey, CrestieWorx & Carnivorous Plants
Freshwater Jeopardy Live!
1:00pm
1 pm Entry
Living the Micro Tank Life w/ Harley Finberg, PNW Custom
Shizuku Workship with Aqua Design Amano; starting at 1:30pm
2:00pm
2 pm and later Entry
Ethnics, Conservation, and BMPs: The Path from Home Breeder to Trusted Supplier w/ Jody Reed, Uncle Joes Fish Shed
Shizuku Workshop continued
3:00pm
Dream Big! Designing Showpiece Aquariums w/ Jeff Turner, Reef Aquaria Design
Live DJ!
4:00pm
Charity Raffle

Live DJ!
5:00pm
Festival Close


ORLANDO EVENT SCHEDULE

March 14th & 15th, 2026
Dezerland Park, Orlando
Note: Schedule of Events May Change

Saturday

Time
Festival Floor
Speaker Stage
10:00am
VIP Entry
VIP Meet & Greet w/Creators @ 10:30!
11:00am
11 am Entry
Aquarium Biology with Taras Pleskun, Top Shelf Aquatics
12:00pm
12 pm Entry
Aquarium Designs - Jeff Turner, Reef Aquaria Design
1:00pm
1 pm Entry
No Filter Aquariums and Natural Setups with Lucas Bretz, LRB Aquatics
2:00pm
2 pm Entry
Reptile Breeding, Husbandry and More with TikisGeckos
3:00pm
3 pm or later Entry
Getting through the first 30 days without losing your mind with Dr. Tim, Dr. Tim's Aquatics
4:00pm

Lighting Techniques to Better Your Husbandry in Planted Tanks, Terrariums, Reptile Enclosures and More! with Tulio Dellaquilla, ReefBrite
5:00pm
Charity Raffle after 5pm presentation wraps
Live DJ!

6:00pm
Festival Close


Sunday

Time
Festival Floor
Speaker Stage
10:00am
VIP Entry
VIP Meet & Greet w/Creators @ 10:15!
11:00am
11 am Entry
Aquashella Aquascaping Contest Awards at 10:45 then Coral Farming and Coral ID with Chris Meckley at ACI Aquaculture at 11:15am
12:00pm
12 pm Entry
From Farm to Family Room: A Fish's Journey with David Drake at 5D Tropical at 12:15pm
1:00pm
1 pm Entry
Sustainability in Aquaculture and Mariculture with Jake Phillips at Biota NA
2:00pm
2 pm and later Entry
Discus Breeding and Husbandry with Gabe Posada, Jack Wattley Discus
3:00pm

Giant Clams: Fragging isn't an option, but they still deserve your love with Julian Sprung, TwoLittleFishies
4:00pm
Charity Raffle
Live DJ!

5:00pm
Festival Close


CHICAGO TICKETS

September 26th & 27th, 2026
Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center

Tickets

The numbers below include tickets for this event already in your cart. Clicking "Get Tickets" will allow you to edit any existing attendee information as well as change ticket quantities.
VIP Weekend Pass
Saturday and Sunday access, 10am entry, official show t-shirt
$ 85.00
235 available
VIP Kids Weekend Pass
(Kids 12 and under) Saturday and Sunday access, 10am entry, official show t-shirt included
$ 50.00
Unlimited
Daily Access - 11am Saturday
11am Entry, 1 Day Access, Saturday Only
$ 30.00
265 available
Daily Access - 12pm Saturday
12pm Entry, 1 Day Access, Saturday Only
$ 30.00
635 available
Daily Access - 1pm Saturday
1pm Entry, 1 Day Access, Saturday Only
$ 25.00
715 available
Daily Access - 2pm Saturday
2pm Entry, 1 Day Access, Saturday Only
$ 25.00
669 available
Daily Access - 3pm or later, Saturday
3pm or later Entry, 1 Day Access, Saturday Only
$ 25.00
1489 available
Daily Access Chi - 11am Sunday
11am Entry, 1 Day Access, Sunday Only
$ 30.00
678 available
Daily Access - 12pm Sunday
12pm Entry, 1 Day Access, Sunday Only
$ 30.00
646 available
Daily Access - 1pm Sunday
1pm Entry, 1 Day Access, Sunday Only
$ 25.00
594 available
Daily Access - 2pm Sunday
2pm or later Entry, 1 Day Access, Sunday Only
$ 25.00
1474 available
Kids Access - Daily
Kids aged 3-12, 1 Day Access, Saturday or Sunday. Must accompany an adult with VIP or Daily Access ticket.
$ 15.00
Unlimited

NEW JERSEY TICKETS

September 12th & 13th, 2026
New Jersey Convention Center, Edison

Tickets

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Tickets are no longer available

DALLAS TICKETS

May 16th and 17th, 2026
Dallas Market Hall

Tickets

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Tickets are no longer available

ORLANDO TICKETS

March 14th & 15th, 2026
Dezerland Park, Orlando

Tickets

The numbers below include tickets for this event already in your cart. Clicking "Get Tickets" will allow you to edit any existing attendee information as well as change ticket quantities.
Tickets are no longer available