The Javits Center in New York City is set to host the much-anticipated second annual Fanatics Fest over the weekend of June 20-22. This year’s event promises to bring together top athletes and celebrities, as well as exclusive merchandise, including a “Museum of Greatness” featuring an astounding $200 million worth of iconic sports cards, like the recently sold Paul Skenes Topps Debut Patch.
While the focus primarily falls on baseball, Fanatics Fest is an all-encompassing celebration of various sports, featuring appearances and activations from major leagues such as the NFL, NBA, NHL, WWE, and FIFA. Baseball fans can look forward to meeting legends like Derek Jeter, Dwight Gooden, Reggie Jackson, and Mike Piazza, alongside recently inducted Hall of Fame members CC Sabathia and Billy Wagner. Current Yankees Max Fried and Jazz Chisholm Jr. will also be attending.
In addition to baseball icons, the event will see prominent figures from other sports, including LeBron James, Tom Brady, Kevin Durant, and Peyton Manning, as well as celebrities like Travis Scott, Kevin Hart, and Kevin Costner.
Collectors will be particularly excited as Fanatics highlights numerous offerings, including Topps-exclusive merchandise. Unique card releases will be available at the festival, with high-end “Cactus Jack” cards going on sale for $500 on the first day, and both hobby and value boxes of the new Topps Series 2 offered throughout the weekend.
The “Museum of Greatness” will showcase over 50 Topps Rookie Debut Patches and memorabilia from sports legends like Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle, making it a historic display for fans and collectors alike. This year, Fanatics is also launching Fanatics Games, a chance for attendees to test their skills against professional athletes for the possibility of winning cash prizes, including a Pitching Accuracy contest.
With last year’s inaugural Fanatics Fest attracting 70,000 attendees, organizers are optimistic about an even larger crowd this year. For ticket details, scheduling, and further information, fans are encouraged to visit FanaticsFest.com.
This event stands as a beacon for sports enthusiasts, celebrating both the passion of sports and the artistry of collecting, making it a hopeful and vibrant gathering for fans from all walks of life.