The Aquatic Experience event is in Chicago from Nov. 7-9, 2014 with guest speaker Jeff Gibula discussing the behind the scenes look of a public aquarium. In this article, learn about the attractions, educational sessions, and why you should attend.
At the Schaumburg Convention Center you will learn about everything aquatic under one roof. From saltwater to freshwater with pond and aquatic animals, enjoy educational seminars, and an exciting show floor filled with hobbyists. In attendance, meet the speakers you’ve heard of online and read articles from but have not yet met in person.
Attending the show? Visit us at booth #528!

Courtesy of David Musselman – http://goo.gl/3gbWmk
Why Attend the Aquatic Experience? 7,000 Gallon Shark Tank. That’s Why.
“The Shark Encounter will begin complete with all of the theatrics- dimmed lights, “Jaws” music, and a smoke-billowing, floor-rising 7000 gallon tank filled with sharks. The show will include educational information as a diver enters the tank and comes in close contact with these amazing creatures. In addition, attendees will be able to have a close up view of the sharks, ask questions of these shark experts, and walk through the Great White Shark museum where they will see shark teeth, shark jaws of different sizes (including a giant ancient one), items found in the bellies of sharks, photos and posters of many different species, and more.” Learn more on the aquatic experience website.
Consumers and retailers alike are invited to one of the most sophisticated aquarium shows in the US for networking with livestock and equipment experts who are setting new trends in this thriving aquarium, pond, and plant industry.
Important Times/Dates for Aquatic Experience Chicago 2014
- Friday, November 7
- Show Floor Hours: Noon-6:00 pm
- Educational Sessions: Noon-5:30 pm
- Raffle Drawings: 5:40 pm-6:00 pm
- State of the Aquatics Industry Town Hall: 6:15 pm-7:45 pm
- Saturday, November 8
- Show Floor Hours: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
- Educational Sessions: 10:00 am-5:00 pm
- Raffle Drawings: 5:30 pm-6:00 pm
- Keynote Meet & Greet (speakers, board members & 3 day pass holders only): 6:00 pm-6:45 pm
- Banquet and Keynote: 7:00 pm (Keynote Speaker: Jeff Gibula, Newport Aquarium)
- Sunday, November 9
- Show Floor Hours: 10:00 am-6:00 pm
- Education Sessions: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
- Raffle Drawing: 2:15 pm-3:00 pm
The Aquatic Experience Aquascaping Live! Contest, Florida Tropical Fish Farmers Display, and 64,000+ Sq Ft of Salt/Fresh Water Exhibits and Displays makes us think this will be the event of the year to attend. There is a tank rental-fish swap & sale area so you can pick up live fish and then promptly feed into the shark encounter tank. (just kidding!)
From saltwater to freshwater w/ pond & aquatic animals, the Aquatic Experience has it all. http://t.co/yexnWlfeFq #saltwater #freshwater— AquaticExperience (@AquaticExper) October 22, 2014
Featured 2014 Aquatic Experience Attractions
These attractions are for kids and adults to enjoy the beauty of aquatic life. Touch shark tanks, shake hands with a starfish and watch the Fancy Guppy competition for full immersion into a world full of fish from around the world. Read these expandable sections below for details on these featured attractions at Aquatic Experience Chicago.
Live Shark Encounter Show & Exhibit
Fancy Guppy Competition
Fish From Around the World Display & Children's Touch Tank
Koi Pond and Lounge
Featured 2014 Educational Sessions
LED Lighting for Aquariums - Sanjay Joshi
Drop for Drop...It's all water to me! - Jeff Gibula (Keynote Speaker)
Freshwater Stingrays in the Wild and in the Aquarium - Jen Reynolds
Do’s and Don’ts of Reef Aquariums - Julian Sprung
Hiring & Training Strategies Proven to Work in Retail - Patrick Donston
Aquatic Experience 2014 – Product Raffle
This daily raffle is a show favorite with a raffle products showcase in the center of the floor. At the last hour of each show day the raffle is completed with new products cycled in. Drop off items at booth #319 Thursday or Friday. As an exhibitor this is a strong opportunity to promote your product over the speaker during the raffle and for attendees visiting the raffle table.
The part that makes this raffle great is that all (100%) of raffle proceeds benefit three Aquatic related charities. The Coral Restoration Foundation, the PIJAC Marine Ornamental Defense Fund and Pets in the Classroom.
Experience the Aquatic Event Yourself (Video)
If you have not bought a ticket to the event and can not attend, this video will give you a visual overview of of what you are unfortunately missing. But there is good news, we will be posting pictures and information on our Facebook and Twitter pages. So please interact with our pages for more information.
Attending Aquarium Shows Helps us Learn from the Vibrant Community
Do you have an upcoming show? Are you seeking new and innovative products to introduce to your Society? We are happy to send product as a giveaway or a staff member to operate a booth at your event.
Please reach out to us via email about your event and how we can be of assistance.