One of the coolest experiences in collecting is attending a large sports card and collectibles show. It’s an amazing networking opportunity, and the energy in the building is palpable. Shows are packed with collectors of all ages, and can be a great time to connect and find some great deals or that card you’ve been hunting for your personal collection.
There are major card conventions/shows all over the United States, spread out throughout the calendar, highlighted by the National Sports Collectors Convention, which takes place in late July. This past year ‘The National’ was held in Chicago, and then heads to Cleveland for 2024, before returning to Chicago the following summer.
Canada’s major convention is the Sport Card & Memorabilia Expo, which is being held 3 times in 2023; twice in Toronto (April & November) and once in Edmonton (May).
The large conventions all have contingents from each of the major manufacturers and grading companies, along with vendors of all sizes. One of the big draws of a major show is the autograph signings, as each one tends to make some big names in sport available for a block of time through the weekend.
There are also smaller card specific shows that run on a regular basis in most large cities, and some comic and collectibles ones will also feature sports cards or trading card games. If you’d like to find out when shows are in your area, asking at your Local Card Shop is usually the best way to do so.