The Biggest Card Shows Still Coming in 2026

The Biggest Card Shows Still Coming in 2026 and Why Collectors Need to Pay Attention

Card shows are no longer just rows of tables in a hotel ballroom.

Today, the biggest shows in the hobby are becoming full-scale events.

Collectors are traveling across the country to buy, sell, trade, grade, meet athletes, create content, and connect with other people in the hobby.

For anyone serious about sports cards, Pokémon, One Piece, or collectibles in general, the second half of 2026 is packed with major events worth paying attention to.

The National Sports Collectors Convention

The National remains the biggest event in the hobby.

Every year, thousands of collectors, dealers, grading companies, breakers, and athletes gather for one massive week of buying and selling.

The National is where some of the biggest cards in the hobby change hands.

It is also where collectors can often find inventory that never appears online.

For many people, attending The National is about more than just buying cards.

It is about networking, seeing rare grails in person, meeting hobby personalities, and getting a feel for where the market is heading.

Fanatics Fest NYC

Fanatics Fest has quickly become one of the most talked-about events in the hobby.

Unlike traditional card shows, Fanatics Fest blends collecting with entertainment.

You can expect:

• Athlete appearances

• Live breaks

• Panels and interviews

• Creator meetups

• Brand activations

• Exclusive products and merchandise

Fanatics is trying to make sports cards feel more mainstream and more accessible.

Events like Fanatics Fest are a huge part of that strategy.

For collectors, it is becoming one of the best places to experience the future of the hobby.

Dallas Card Show

The Dallas Card Show continues to be one of the strongest regional events in the country.

Unlike some of the larger national conventions, Dallas happens multiple times throughout the year, which makes it one of the best opportunities for collectors who want consistent access to inventory and networking.

The show attracts everyone from casual collectors to high-end dealers.

Whether you are hunting for a grail slab, looking for Pokémon singles, or trying to sell a collection, Dallas has become one of the most important stops in the hobby.

Collect-A-Con

Collect-A-Con is growing fast because it appeals to more than just sports card collectors.

The show has become one of the best events for Pokémon, One Piece, anime, Funko, toys, gaming, and pop culture collectibles.

That makes it especially attractive for younger collectors and people who collect across multiple categories.

As the hobby becomes more multi-category, Collect-A-Con is becoming more important.

Collectors no longer want to attend events that only focus on one niche.

They want to see everything in one place.

Tips for First-Time Attendees

If you are planning to attend a major card show for the first time, a few things can make the experience better:

• Bring cash and a budget

• Research comps before buying

• Wear comfortable shoes

• Bring a backpack or case for purchases

• Expect long lines for grading and autographs

• Network with dealers and other collectors

• Be ready to negotiate

The best deals often come from walking the room, talking to people, and staying patient.

Why Card Shows Matter More Than Ever

In a world where so much of the hobby happens online, card shows still matter.

They give collectors a chance to see cards in person, build relationships, and feel the energy of the market.

As sports cards, Pokémon, One Piece, and collectibles continue to grow, these events are becoming more than conventions.

They are becoming major cultural moments for the hobby.