With their shiny, fishtails flashing, hundreds of women and men flooded the pools in Manassis, Virginia, near Washington, this weekend for one of the world’s largest … mermaid conventions.

Many Americans flock to the “Sea Magic Conference” every year, lovers of the fantastic creatures of the seabed. Amateurs or “professional mermaids”, they show off their talents in public pools or at private events and compete in elaborate pirouettes and spectacular costumes.

In addition to diving and the evening gala, the convention is also a trade show, with paid safe swimming lessons, stalls selling various accessories and professional photography.

But above all, it enables everyone to participate.

“No matter how old one is, no matter where one comes from, no matter what body or weakness one has, everyone can become a mermaid. There are no restrictions,” said Merlot, 19, wearing a wig to match her long ponytail.

The conference program thus includes round tables on topics such as “The diversity of mermaids”, “Fat mermaids make waves” or even a workshop on “mermaid makeup in all shades of the lagoon”.