Detroit is set to welcome a landmark event in 2028, as the prestigious National Sports Collectors Convention, widely known as “The National,” officially announces its arrival at the city’s expansive Huntington Place. This significant decision underscores Detroit’s growing prominence as a premier destination for major national gatherings and highlights its re-emerging status on the national stage.
For decades, The National has stood as the pinnacle event for sports memorabilia enthusiasts and dedicated card collecting hobbyists worldwide. It serves as an unparalleled convergence point where collectors, dealers, and fans unite to buy, sell, trade, and showcase an incredible array of rare cards, valuable autographs, game-worn memorabilia, and other highly sought-after sports collectibles.
The selection of Detroit for this highly anticipated event in 2028 marks a pivotal moment for the city, signaling confidence in its infrastructure, hospitality, and its vibrant, evolving landscape. Hosting an event of this magnitude is expected to generate significant economic benefits, drawing thousands of visitors and boosting local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to transportation services.
Huntington Place, a state-of-the-art convention center located in the heart of downtown Detroit, provides the ideal venue for The National. Its vast exhibition halls, modern amenities, and strategic location offer ample space and accessibility to accommodate the thousands of attendees and hundreds of exhibitors expected for the convention, ensuring a smooth and successful experience for all participants.
While Detroit gears up for its turn, the current year’s convention is actively underway in Rosemont, Illinois, just outside Chicago. This year’s installment commenced on Wednesday, July 30, and is scheduled to conclude on Sunday, August 3, drawing a massive crowd to its traditional Midwest hub.
Looking ahead, the organizers have confirmed that the National Sports Collectors Convention will continue its run in Rosemont for both the 2026 and 2027 editions. This consistent scheduling ensures continuity for attendees before the much-anticipated transition to the Motor City in 2028, building excitement for the new venue.
The arrival of this prominent collectors convention in Detroit symbolizes not only a win for the city’s tourism and events sector but also a nod to the enduring passion for sports memorabilia and card collecting. It’s an opportunity for Detroit to showcase its unique charm and hospitality while solidifying its place as a go-to location for premier national events in the future.