The bustling streets of New York City are set to thrum with even more energy than usual as Fanatics Fest makes a dynamic return to the Javits Center from June 20 through June 22, 2025. This event is swiftly becoming a mecca for sports enthusiasts, attracting fans with promises of iconic athlete appearances, limited-edition sports cards, and collectibles that make the heart race faster than a 100 mph fastball.
Last year’s spectacular debut drew in a staggering 70,000 eager beavers, all with a burning passion for sports merchandise and memorabilia. Now in its sophomore year, Fanatics Fest is upping the ante, aiming to surpass this initial success with an even grander lineup of activities and features guaranteed to delight both the casual fan and the dedicated collector.
When it comes to the centerpiece attractions of Fanatics Fest, it’s all about rubbing elbows with legendary sports icons. This year’s event promises autograph signings and photo ops that are bound to create lifelong memories, especially for baseball aficionados. Expect to be starstruck by the presence of Derek Jeter, Mike Piazza, Dwight Gooden, Reggie Jackson, and the fresh Hall of Fame duo of CC Sabathia and Billy Wagner. Moreover, the event broadens its stellar roster with appearances from renowned players like Albert Pujols, Manny Ramirez, Mike Schmidt, and current Yankees Max Fried and Jazz Chisholm Jr.
But the magic of Fanatics Fest is not confined to the baseball diamond. The guest list features heavy hitters across various sports and entertainment domains. LeBron James will certainly draw a crowd, as will the anticipated presences of Tom Brady, Peyton Manning, Kevin Durant, along with cultural heavyweights like John Cena, Henrik Lundqvist, Travis Scott, Kevin Hart, and Kevin Costner. Fanatics Fest has truly assembled a constellation of stars.
As any avid collector will tell you, the real treasure hunt lies in the exclusive releases and rare memorabilia. Fanatics Fest 2025 is primed to deliver on this front. A major highlight will be the Topps brand showcasing three exclusive card releases tailored specifically for the event:
On Friday, collectors can dive into the “Cactus Jack” series, a premium offering with only a limited edition of high-end boxes, each priced at $500. These boxes contain two packs with four cards each, rendering them both a mystery and a miracle for card lovers.
The excitement escalates into Saturday and Sunday with the Fanatics Fest-exclusive Topps Series 2. These will feature NYC-themed parallels, adding a local flair that New York fans are sure to appreciate. Hobby boxes are set at $300 for the true enthusiasts, while value boxes will remain an accessible choice at $50.
Beyond the allure of vendor booths—collectively known as “merch village”—the event also allures diehards with the promise of the “Museum of Greatness.” This unparalleled exhibition boasts over $200 million worth of sports memorabilia. Among these hallowed treasures are items linked to legends like Babe Ruth, Mickey Mantle, and Shohei Ohtani. A particularly jaw-dropping showcase within this treasure trove is featuring over 50 Topps Rookie Debut Patch cards. Among these is the million-dollar Paul Skenes patch card, a true grail among collectors. Considering there are exactly 347 of these patches worldwide, the gathering of over 50 in one space speaks volumes to the fest’s appeal.
Adding a vibrant layer of interaction is the debut of Fanatics Games. Attendees with a competitive streak will relish the opportunity to test their skills against pro athletes through various challenges, notably the Pitching Accuracy contest. The stakes? Oh, just a little thing called cash prizes. No big deal.
Throughout the weekend, the Fest bursts with activity: from panels and live podcasts to hands-on experiences, making it more than just a shopping spree. It’s a full-blown celebration of sports culture, immersing fans in activities that enrich their love for the game.
With the anticipation already mounting, insiders predict an overflow of enthusiasm and turnout, trumping last year’s impressive numbers. For those who hold a flame for sports and wish to cement their place in this annual tradition, it’s time to mark your calendars and prepare your game face.
For those eager to grab tickets, explore the full schedule, and access further details, a visit to FanaticsFest.com is highly recommended. Let the countdown to an unforgettable sports extravaganza begin!
