The 46th National Sports Collectors Convention — North America’s largest sports card and memorabilia show.
Event Details
- Dates: July 29 – August 2, 2026
- Venue: Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont, Illinois
- Type: In-person trade show
- Official site: nsccshow.com
About the Show
Held annually since 1980, the National Sports Collectors Convention — universally known to hobbyists simply as “The National” — is the largest gathering of sports memorabilia dealers, grading services, athletes, and collectors in the world. The 2026 edition marks the 46th annual show and returns to its rotational home of suburban Chicago.
What to Expect
Attendees can expect over 600 dealer tables featuring vintage and modern trading cards, autographed memorabilia, game-used artifacts, and high-end graded slabs. Major grading companies including PSA, BGS, CGC, and SGC operate on-site grading specials, and corporate booths from Topps, Panini, Upper Deck, Leaf, and Fanatics traditionally release National-exclusive products.
Tickets
Advance tickets typically open in late autumn the prior year via the official site, with VIP packages, corporate party access, and family weekend passes available.
Pro Tips for First-Timers
- Wear comfortable shoes — the show floor exceeds 600,000 square feet.
- Arrive early Wednesday for VIP packs and Thursday for early entry.
- Bring small bills and a magnifying loupe.
- Pre-register grading submissions online to avoid lines.
Verify all dates, ticket availability, and corporate signing schedules with the official NSCC site closer to the event.