News

Fanatics has announced its inaugural Fanatics Fest NYC, a three-day sports collecting extravaganza scheduled for August 16-18 at the Javits Center in New York City. This event marks a significant expansion in the realm of sports collectibles, offering a contemporary twist on the traditional card show. Described by the company as a nexus of sports fandom, culture, and collecting, Fanatics Fest NYC will feature interactive exhibits, stages and theaters for live events, product drops, and exclusive merchandise.

The event, which is expected to attract major names in sports such as Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, and Kevin Durant, will also include live podcasts, major announcements, and a variety of sports and entertainment figures. Fanatics Fest is set to be a much larger affair compared to similar events like the IMG-produced Mint Collective held in Las Vegas, showcasing over 400,000 square feet of show floor and a main stage capable of seating 2,500 attendees.

Fanatics, along with its subsidiaries Topps and PWCC, and other key industry players like PSA, will offer unique experiences such as an all-day trading pit for card enthusiasts, beginner-focused "Collecting 101" sessions, and a museum display featuring some of the rarest cards and sports memorabilia in the world. Exclusive trading card products from Topps will be available only at the show.

Ticket prices for this premium event will range from $20 to $400, with a general adult admission set at $50 per day. Lance Fensterman, CEO of Fanatics Events, emphasized the unique nature of Fanatics Fest NYC, aiming to create a space where sports fans can celebrate and deepen their passions. Fensterman, who has a rich background in organizing collecting events like New York Comic Con and Star Wars Celebration, expressed excitement about introducing fans to what will be part of a yearlong calendar of live experiences.

This event is a part of Fanatics’ broader strategy to host a series of collecting-oriented events across the country, promising an innovative approach to merging sports fandom with cultural and collecting experiences. Further details about additional events and activations will be announced later in the year.