New York City’s Javits Center is once more set to transform into a haven of athletic glory and collector’s delight as Fanatics Fest makes its highly anticipated return. Scheduled from June 20-22, the event is back for its sophomore year, poised to outdo its debut with a line-up that reads like the sports world’s Who’s Who. From legendary athletes to once-in-a-lifetime collectibles, the fest is a must-attend for fans of all ages.
With a broad scope that covers everything from slam dunks to body slams, Fanatics Fest naturally places a significant emphasis on America’s favorite pastime—baseball. Known for its roster of illustrious guests, this year is no exception. Attendees will have the chance to rub elbows and snap selfies with iconic names deeply intertwined with New York baseball lore. Expect to see the unyielding charm of Derek Jeter, the slugging prowess of Mike Piazza, the curveball mastery of Dwight Gooden, the charisma of Reggie Jackson, and the recent Hall of Fame inductees, CC Sabathia and Billy Wagner.
Adding international flair and transcendental batting stats to the MLB legends, the event also welcomes Albert Pujols, Manny Ramirez, and Mike Schmidt. And for those keeping tabs on the current lineup, Yankee stars Max Fried and Jazz Chisholm Jr. are set to tag along.
But it’s not merely a baseball bonanza; Fanatics Fest extends its all-star roster to include colossal figures from other sports and realms of entertainment. Look out for charismatic court kings LeBron James and Kevin Durant, gridiron giants Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, charismatic entertainer Kevin Hart, and even Hollywood icon Kevin Costner. Wrestling fans won’t be disappointed either, with John Cena tossing his hat into the ring alongside hockey royalty Henrik Lundqvist.
Aside from the star-studded scene, the true treasure of the fest lies in its collectors’ dream offerings. Fanatics turns the spotlight on its celebrated Topps brand, unveiling three exclusive card releases crafted specifically for the event. Friday marks the debut of the elusive “Cactus Jack” high-end boxes, dazzling enthusiasts with their limited run priced at $500 per box, each containing two packs of four cards. The exclusivity doesn’t stop there. Saturday and Sunday viewers are in for treats with Fanatics Fest-exclusive Topps Series 2 boxes, donned with irresistible NYC-themed parallels. For $300, hobbyists can indulge in the premium hobby boxes, or select the more budget-friendly value boxes at $50.
However, those with broader collecting interests must not fret. The “merch village” will make its grand return, a sprawling marketplace teeming with collectible cards and mementos, ensuring there’s no shortage of ways to connect with the world of sports memorabilia. The much-acclaimed “Museum of Greatness” will once again captivate visitors, displaying over $200 million worth of sports history’s crown jewels. Standouts in this shrine include mementos from Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle, alongside contemporary marvels like Shohei Ohtani. Not forgetting the eye-popping lineup of more than 50 Topps Rookie Debut Patch cards, among which the behemoth Paul Skenes patch headlines—an achievement considering the fleet comprises just 347 pieces globally.
An exciting addition to this year’s fest is the gamified brilliance of Fanatics Games. These competitive fan challenges invite attendees to channel their inner pro, going head-to-head with athletes in contests such as Pitching Accuracy, with enticing cash prizes enriching the stakes.
And what’s a fest without dialogue and discourse? The event promises a series of panels, live podcasts, and interactive experiences peppered throughout the weekend, ensuring Fanatics Fest is far more than a shopping spree—it is a jubilant exploration and celebration of sports culture in its entirety.
The 2024 edition of Fanatics Fest saw 70,000 enthusiasts pedaling spiritedly towards the event, yet the organizers are bracing for an even thunderous stampede with expectations soaring for 2025’s iteration. Whether you’re an autograph aficionado, a memorabilia maven, or simply an ardent fan, Fanatics Fest 2025 has etched itself as a vivid must-see on the sports calendar.
For those eager to partake in this carnival of sporting excellence, details on tickets, schedules, and more are all available on FanaticsFest.com. This June, New York City beckons sports fans near and far to what promises to be an unforgettable blend of sport, culture, and community.
