Fanatics is expanding its slate of U.S. events, adding new destinations and formats to its lineup, alongside its upcoming fan fest in New York City. During the Topps Industry Conference in Atlanta, the company detailed plans for its flagship 'FanaticsFest' at New York’s Javits Center, scheduled for August 16-18, which will blend elements of fandom, culture, and collecting. Additional events are set for Orlando, FL from November 1-3, focusing more on collectibles, and a more intimate gathering at PNC Park in Pittsburgh on September 28-29, expected to feature autograph sessions with local athletes.
These events are part of Fanatics’ broader strategy to host a mix of large-scale gatherings, regional shows, venue-specific events at stadiums, and collaborations with sports leagues during major events like drafts. Detailed announcements regarding these events are anticipated in the future.
On the promotions front, Topps has several engaging activities lined up for collectors. The Trading Card Day is back on August 3, offering free exclusive packs at hobby shops. Additionally, the MVP Buyback program returns this fall, allowing collectors to exchange cards of recent MLB MVPs for store credit. Following the success of last year’s Hobby Rip Night, which led to record sales for 18% of the 409 participating stores, Topps is launching its second edition on September 14. A brand-new initiative, Hobby Break Night, is scheduled for December 14. This online event will feature live case, box, and pack openings with guest appearances and giveaways.
Fanatics is enhancing its event offerings across the U.S., with new fan fests and collector-focused gatherings, while Topps is renewing and introducing promotions to further engage collectors. These efforts aim to blend fandom with collecting, providing enriching experiences for sports enthusiasts and collectors alike.