The weekend’s programming ranges from public spectacles to interactive workshops, including swim sessions, costuming classes, educational panels and live performances. Photo by Rick Sloan

RANCHO CORDOVA, CA (MPG) - A splash of color, sequins and shimmering tails will soon ripple through Rancho Cordova as hundreds of “merfolk” from around the world gather for a weekend that blends fantasy with community and a message that runs deeper than the surface.

The California Mermaid Convention returns May 15-17 for its seventh annual event, transforming the Hagan Community Center and Cordova Community Pool into a three-day celebration of performance, creativity and hands-on experiences.

Organizers say the convention, held in partnership with Visit Rancho Cordova, is expected to draw more than 400 attendees, including professional performers, hobbyists and first-time participants traveling from across the United States and as far as Hawaii, Germany and Japan.

The Bubble Ball, one of the convention’s most anticipated events, will feature a jazz band, aerial performances and the crowning of the event’s “Pearl.” Photo by Rick Sloan

Recognized as the longest-running mermaid convention on the West Coast, the event has grown from a small costume parade into a large-scale production that combines entertainment with education and environmental awareness.

“The California Mermaid Convention in Rancho Cordova is quintessentially quirky, refreshingly inclusive, and daringly bold,” said Kristen Achziger, director of marketing and communications for Visit Rancho Cordova. “They push the boundaries of the unexpected and novel while still providing a relaxed and welcoming experience for all visitors.”

The weekend’s programming ranges from public spectacles to interactive workshops, including swim sessions, costuming classes, educational panels and live performances. Environmental stewardship is woven throughout, with an emphasis on ocean and waterway conservation.

Festivities begin Friday, May 15, with the Promenade of Mermaids from 5 to 7:30 p.m. along the Embarcadero Waterfront in Old Sacramento, a free, all-ages event that has become a regional tradition. The evening continues with a 21-and-over launch party from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. at Dive Bar, 1016 K St., Sacramento.

The California Mermaid Convention returns May 15-17 for its seventh annual event, transforming the Hagan Community Center and Cordova Community Pool into a three-day celebration. Photo by Rick Sloan

Main convention programming takes place Saturday, May 16, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Hagan Park Community Pool, featuring hands-on activities and performances for attendees of all ages. That night, the Bubble Ball runs from 7:30 to 11:30 p.m. at the Hagan Community Center, offering a ticketed, all-ages costume event with live entertainment and immersive visuals.

The Bubble Ball, one of the convention’s most anticipated events, will feature a jazz band, aerial performances and the crowning of the event’s “Pearl,” recognizing a standout participant within the community.

Activities resume Sunday, May 17, with the main convention continuing from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the community pool. The weekend concludes with the Grotto Swim from 6 to 10 p.m. at a private location, a 16-and-over finale featuring a themed pool experience and professional photography.

“The California Mermaid Convention is truly a celebration of community, magic and joy,” said Rachel Smith, one of the event organizers. “We are a safe place to be yourself, level up your underwater skills and find new best friends.”

Held in partnership with Visit Rancho Cordova, the California Mermaid Convention is expected to draw more than 400 attendees. Photo by Rick Sloan

Smith said the event also reflects a broader purpose beyond entertainment, including community engagement and environmental efforts such as river cleanups and conservation initiatives.

“We are proud to give back to the greater Rancho Cordova and Sacramento community through ongoing river cleanups, donations and water stewardship,” she said. The world feels scary these days, and building this magical underwater realm has brought a lot of joy to so many people. We are grateful to do it for another year.”

Local tourism officials say the convention continues to bring both cultural and economic benefits to Rancho Cordova, drawing visitors who support area hotels, restaurants and businesses.

For more information on upcoming events, including river cleanups and future conventions, visit californiamermaidcon.com.