If you’ve ever dreamed of seeing grapefruit-sized ryukin goldfish, award-winning bettas flaring at their own medals, and koi worth more than a car — all under one roof — the Holland Koi Show in Arcen, Netherlands delivers exactly that kind of aquarium paradise. Whether you’re a serious collector or just love beautiful fish, this annual event is one of Europe’s most exciting gatherings for the hobby.
What Is the Holland Koi Show?
An annual fish exhibition held at the Kasteeltuinen (Castle Gardens) in Arcen, Netherlands, featuring competitive koi judging, betta shows, fancy goldfish displays, aquascaping demonstrations, and vendors selling everything from dwarf shrimp to rare aquatic plants.
I last visited this event in 2013 (photos from that trip can be found here!) and was lucky enough to return in 2015. The show has only grown since then, attracting hobbyists, breeders, and vendors from across Europe and beyond.
What You’ll Find at the Holland Koi Show
The variety on display is genuinely impressive. The event caters to nearly every corner of the freshwater hobby:
| Category | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Koi | Championship-level koi from top European and Japanese breeders, some valued at thousands of euros |
| Bettas | Competitive betta show featuring crowntails, plakats, rosetails, dragonscales, and more |
| Fancy Goldfish | High-quality ryukins, orandas, ranchus, and panda moors — some selling for $500+ |
| Tropical Fish | Corydoras, rasboras, freshwater stingrays, and other community tank favorites |
| Aquatic Plants | Rare plants, Marimo moss balls, Nymphaea lotus bulbs, and aquascaping supplies |
| Invertebrates | Specialty shrimp varieties from established breeders |
Betta Competition Highlights
For betta enthusiasts, the show is a rare opportunity to see competition-grade specimens in person. The 2015 display included an impressive range of varieties — from classic crowntails and halfmoons to the then-emerging rosetail and dragonscale morphs. One memorable detail: the award-winning bettas were positioned right next to their medals, and they spent most of their time flaring aggressively at the shiny reflections.
? Did You Know?
Dragonscale bettas, while visually striking, can develop scale overgrowth that eventually covers their eyes — a condition called “diamond eye.” Some show specimens already displayed early signs of this, a reminder that extreme breeding comes with trade-offs.
If you’re interested specifically in betta photos from the event, be sure to check out our betta gallery from previous shows for even more stunning specimens.
Fancy Goldfish Worth the Trip
The goldfish section alone justifies attendance for anyone who appreciates these underrated fish. I spotted ryukin goldfish literally the size of grapefruits — healthy, well-proportioned specimens that showcased what proper breeding and care can achieve. Panda moors, calico orandas, and other varieties were available from specialty breeders who rarely sell online.
? High-quality fancy goldfish from shows like this often cost $100-$500+ per fish — but you’re paying for genetics, health, and coloration that’s nearly impossible to find at local pet stores.
Beyond Fish: The Castle Gardens Setting
Part of what makes the Holland Koi Show special is its location. The Kasteeltuinen Arcen (Arcen Castle Gardens) is a stunning venue featuring formal gardens, water features, and landscaped grounds. Between browsing vendor booths, you can wander through beautiful koi ponds built into the garden landscape — a nice break from indoor exhibits and a chance to see large koi in a more natural pond setting.
Tips for Attending a Fish Show
If you’re planning to visit the Holland Koi Show or a similar event, here are a few things I learned:
? What to Bring
- Cash — many vendors prefer it, and ATMs get crowded
- A cooler or insulated bag if you plan to buy fish or plants
- Battery packs or oxygen tablets for transporting live purchases
- A camera — show fish are often the best specimens you’ll ever see in person
- Comfortable shoes (you’ll be on your feet for hours)
? Pro Tip
Arrive early on the first day if you want first pick of rare specimens — serious collectors often snap up the best fish within the first few hours. Vendors are also more willing to negotiate prices on the final day of the show.
Photo Gallery: Holland Koi Show 2015
I didn’t go home with any fish myself, but I took plenty of photos. Browse through the gallery below to see prize-winning bettas, massive goldfish, beautiful corydoras, aquascaped displays, and more:
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Holland Koi Show held?
The Holland Koi Show takes place at the Kasteeltuinen Arcen (Arcen Castle Gardens) in Arcen, a town in the Limburg province of the Netherlands near the German border.
Can you buy fish at the Holland Koi Show?
Yes, numerous vendors sell live fish including koi, fancy goldfish, bettas, tropical fish, and invertebrates. Prices range from affordable shrimp to championship koi costing thousands of euros. Bring cash and transport supplies.
When does the Holland Koi Show take place?
The show is typically held annually in late summer or early fall. Check the official Kasteeltuinen Arcen website for current year dates and ticket information.
Is the Holland Koi Show worth attending for betta enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The show features a competitive betta exhibition with judged categories for crowntails, plakats, halfmoons, and other varieties. It’s one of the best opportunities in Europe to see competition-grade bettas and purchase quality specimens from breeders.
What else is there to see at the Kasteeltuinen Arcen?
Beyond the fish show, the castle gardens feature beautiful landscaped grounds including a koi pond garden, themed garden areas, and the historic castle itself. Your show ticket typically includes access to the entire garden complex.
Happy fishkeeping!
Looking for more fishkeeping inspiration? Check out our [INTERNAL LINK: “complete betta care guide” -> betta fish care] or learn about [INTERNAL LINK: “setting up a goldfish tank” -> goldfish tank setup].
