RazMania Midwest Festival is set to make its debut in Metro Detroit on August 29-30, 2026, at the UWM Sports Complex in Pontiac, Michigan. The two-day event is expected to draw thousands of collectors, sports fans, and families from across the Midwest, positioning itself as one of the region's premier sports and trading card game (TCG) collectibles festivals.
The festival will provide attendees with the opportunity to buy, sell, and trade sports cards, Pokémon cards, TCG items, comics, memorabilia, and other collectibles. More than 50 professional athletes are scheduled to appear, including Detroit Lions players Jameson Williams, Jake Bates, Jack Fox, Brock Wright, and Hogan Hatten, as well as University of Michigan football players Jordan Marshall, Zack Marshall, Enow Etta, and Avery Gach. Additionally, top college recruits like DeAndre Bidden (5-star, Class of 2028) and Jayden Evans (4-star, Class of 2028) will be on hand for autograph signings and photo opportunities.
Jason Raznick, founder of RazMania, emphasized the event's community-building aspect: "RazMania is about bringing together the entire collecting community under one roof. Whether you're a lifelong collector, a sports fan, a Pokémon enthusiast or someone attending their first card show, we want everyone to experience the excitement of discovering incredible collectibles, meeting athletes and connecting with others who share the same passion."
Beyond the commercial and fan experiences, RazMania is partnering with local youth organizations, including Pontiac United and the Boys & Girls Club of Troy, to welcome hundreds of local youth for a day of meeting athletes and exploring the hobby. Jeff Evans, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club of Troy, noted, "Our kids are looking forward to getting autographs and meeting some of their local sports heroes." Traciee Hirsch, Founder & CEO of Pontiac United, added, "Opportunities like this allow our youth to experience something new, dream beyond their current surroundings, and see possibilities for their futures that they may not have imagined before."
The festival will also feature interactive fan experiences, such as a 40-yard dash, half-court shot, and field goal kicks, making it a family-friendly event for all ages. With hundreds of vendor booths expected, the festival offers businesses a chance to showcase their brands to a highly engaged collecting audience. Vendor spaces and sponsorship opportunities are still available, and more details can be found at www.RazManiaFest.com.
The economic impact of such events on local communities can be significant, drawing visitors who spend on lodging, dining, and entertainment. For the hobby industry, RazMania represents a growing trend of large-scale conventions that combine sports, entertainment, and commerce, potentially revitalizing interest in physical collectibles among younger generations. By integrating community outreach, the festival also underscores the social value of sports and collecting in building connections and inspiring youth.
RazMania was founded by Jason Raznick, Patrick Lane, and Elliot Lane, and its expansion to Metro Detroit signals the brand's growth beyond its origins. The event's partnership with Pontiac United, a nonprofit providing free youth programs, and the Boys & Girls Club of Troy, which has served the community for nearly 50 years, highlights a commitment to giving back. As the festival approaches, it stands to become a staple in the Midwest's sports and collectibles calendar, offering a unique blend of commerce, fandom, and philanthropy.
