Once again, the bustling city of New York is ready to roll out the red carpet for an event that captures the very essence of sporting passion—Fanatics Fest 2025. From June 20th to 22nd, the Javits Center transforms into an epic playground for the sports-obsessed, lining its halls with the glitter of athletic celebrity and the allure of rare collectibles. For its second installment, the festival has managed to crank up the volume, promising a captivating lineup that stretches across the realms of sports and entertainment.
Perhaps the real drawing card for this dazzling festivity is the sheer array of sports icons set to grace the event. Baseball aficionados, prepare to be starstruck as legends of the diamond such as Derek Jeter, Mike Piazza, and Reggie Jackson take center stage. Their connections to the Big Apple promise more than just a signature and a smile; they are a stroll through New York’s rich baseball tapestry. Add newly minted Hall of Famers like CC Sabathia and Billy Wagner into the mix, and you have a veritable who’s who of baseball greatness.
For those whose sports passion extends beyond baseball’s revered dugouts and outfields, fear not. The celebrity cavalcade keeps rolling with appearances from megastars like LeBron James, the ever-dominant Tom Brady, and gridiron icon Peyton Manning. From the realms of the NBA, Kevin Durant will make an appearance, and wrestling will be well represented by the unmistakable presence of John Cena. Even the entertainment world joins the sports spectacle with figures like Travis Scott and Kevin Hart turning up the charisma to eleven.
Naturally, an event dubbed “Fanatics Fest” wouldn’t be complete without a treasure trove of collectibles. With an eye-catching focus on their Topps brand, Fanatics has curated an exclusive run of collectibles sure to send the hearts of enthusiasts racing. Friday will kick off with the premium “Cactus Jack” boxes, each priced at $500, tempting attendees with their promise of high-value card treasures. The weekend progresses with NYC-themed Topps Series 2 boxes, adding a distinct New York flair to the festival’s collectibility as hobby boxes and more affordable value boxes become available.
This year’s festival also introduces the Fanatics Games, a series of interactive fan challenges. Here, mere mortals can test their athletic prowess against their professional heroes in spirited competitions such as Pitching Accuracy, with enticing cash prizes for those who rise to the occasion. For those keen on mingling with fellow enthusiasts, “merch village” stands ready to satiate one’s thirst for all things collectible, set against the backdrop of bustling vendor booths.
Among the various attractions at the fest, one stands above the rest—the spellbinding “Museum of Greatness.” A cultural pilgrimage for any sports lover, the exhibit showcases an astonishing $200 million worth of iconic sports memorabilia. From Babe Ruth’s magnificent exploits to Mickey Mantle’s legendary career, curated pieces tell the stories of sporting legends. Not to be missed is the presentation of over 50 Topps Rookie Debut Patch cards, boasting the million-dollar brilliance of the Paul Skenes patch, a vivid testament to the market’s most elite collectibles.
The festival doesn’t stop at just presenting items for sale or display. A rich tapestry of panels, live podcasts, and immersive experiences underscores the festival’s broader goal of celebrating sports culture in all its glory. It’s more than an event; it’s a spectacle. A testament to the unifying magic of sports and the communities that champion them.
With a staggering 70,000 fans gracing last year’s event, expectations run high. An even larger crowd is anticipated in 2025 as anticipation simmers and die-hard fans of all descriptions look ahead to what could very well become the centerpiece of their sports calendars. Whether you’re a dedicated autograph hunter, a rookie collector seeking that next prized possession, or simply there to soak in the eclectic energy that only an event of this magnitude can offer, Fanatics Fest 2025 stands ready to deliver a resonant symphony of sports splendor.
For those yearning to plunge into this vibrant celebration of all things sports, tickets, full scheduling details, and more can be obtained by venturing over to FanaticsFest.com. The countdown to June has begun, promising a feast for the eyes, ears, and hearts of sports lovers everywhere.
