About the event...The PNW Mermaid Confluence part of the Portlandia Mermaid Parade and Festival and is an all-ages, one-day mermaid convention for mermaid enthusiasts, hobbyists and professionals alike. This event features open swim activities, mermaid swim coaching, workshops, panel speakers, vendors and more.
The confluence will explore topics unique to mermaiding in the PNW, in addition to offering panels and workshops on merfolk fantasy and folklore, water healing and spiritual practices, professional mermaiding, and other topics of interest. The PNW Mermaid Confluence is an intentional event which also builds a bridge between the world of mermaiding and environmental stewardship and advocacy of the world’s most sacred resource, water. SCROLL DOWN FOR MORE INFO... |
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The PNW Mermaid Confluence is taking place from 10am-5pm at the Sherwood Regional YMCA located at: 2300 SW Pacific Hwy, Sherwood OR 97140
This beautiful space is just 30 minutes outside of Portland, and has a 25 yard long, 3 lane pool with zero depth entry to 7’ deep that is senior, youth and special-need friendly. Pool temperature is maintained at 84–86° F. The entire building including the pool and the restrooms are ADA accessible.
This beautiful space is just 30 minutes outside of Portland, and has a 25 yard long, 3 lane pool with zero depth entry to 7’ deep that is senior, youth and special-need friendly. Pool temperature is maintained at 84–86° F. The entire building including the pool and the restrooms are ADA accessible.
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2026 Schedule TBA
All Day Activities (10am-5pm)
Timed Activities (Various Times TBA)
The PNW Mermaid Confluence features a full day of aquatic magic, learning, and community connection! Open Swim is available all day in the leisure pool—perfect for merfolk of all ages and abilities. Presentations are free and open to everyone, featuring topics ranging from mythology to marine science. Masterclasses are ticketed workshops with limited space and require paid registration. The Makers & Mission Grotto, our outdoor marketplace and advocacy space, is open all day for browsing, shopping, and learning! Please note that while there will be no food carts on site for this event, we will have a non-alcoholic drink and snack bar open all day in the Bubble Room AND you are encouraged to bring a lunch and enjoy our seating area for some down time. Your event bracelets also allow you re-entry if you decide to venture out and return.
Be sure to check back for activity and schedule updates! Please see our list of offerings below:
- Open Swim
- Makers Grotto
- The Bubble Room (Refreshments & Tabletop Activities, Decompression)
- Shellfie Station
- Tidal Cinema (Curated Mermaid Films)
Timed Activities (Various Times TBA)
- Free Panels & Presentations
- Specialty Workshops/Merfolk Master Classes
- Pool Side Activities
- Group Photo
The PNW Mermaid Confluence features a full day of aquatic magic, learning, and community connection! Open Swim is available all day in the leisure pool—perfect for merfolk of all ages and abilities. Presentations are free and open to everyone, featuring topics ranging from mythology to marine science. Masterclasses are ticketed workshops with limited space and require paid registration. The Makers & Mission Grotto, our outdoor marketplace and advocacy space, is open all day for browsing, shopping, and learning! Please note that while there will be no food carts on site for this event, we will have a non-alcoholic drink and snack bar open all day in the Bubble Room AND you are encouraged to bring a lunch and enjoy our seating area for some down time. Your event bracelets also allow you re-entry if you decide to venture out and return.
Be sure to check back for activity and schedule updates! Please see our list of offerings below:
Enjoy a diverse lineup of free panels, talks, and presentations throughout the day ranging from marine science and mermaid folklore to independent film and creative storytelling. Whether you're a curious kid, a lifelong mermaid, or a passionate ocean advocate, there’s something for everyone. Age recommendations vary by session, check listings below for details!
Free Presentation Line-Up TBA
In addition to our free community panels and Makers & Mission Grotto, the Confluence features a curated selection of Merfolk Masterclasses, specialty workshops taught by acclaimed artists and educators. These are ticketed events with limited capacity. Advanced fee registration is preferred. If there is room you may be able to sign up at the confluence. Sign up now! See list of classes below.
Merfolk Masterclass Offerings TBA
Wander the Makers & Mission Grotto, an open-air celebration of creativity and purpose. Discover hand-unique mermaid wares, oceanic art, jewelry, magical goods, and sustainable creations from talented makers, alongside nonprofit organizations and community partners working to protect our waters, and inspire community action!
Whether you’re here to shop, connect, learn, or simply soak in the vibes, the Grotto is full of treasures waiting to be found.
The Makers & Mission Grotto List TBA
The PNW Mermaid Confluence is now applications for 2026 vendors, panelists, and workshop presenters. Whether you're a creator, educator, or merfolk enthusiast, we’d love to feature your gifts and expertise at this year’s gathering. See links below to apply!