Autumn is the busiest season for trading card fans in Europe. Big conventions are where new products are shown first, where players meet for tournaments and side events, and where collectors trade, buy and hunt for the cards missing from their binders. Here are three events worth putting in your calendar – plus a checklist of what to bring.
SPIEL Essen – 22–25 October 2026 (Essen, Germany)
SPIEL is the world's largest public fair for board, card and tabletop games, held every October at Messe Essen. Publishers use it to present their new releases, and card game publishers and retailers exhibit alongside board game companies. Expect demo tables, launches and a huge shopping and trading area. Check the official website for tickets and the hall plan before you go.
Lucca Comics & Games – 28 October – 1 November 2026 (Lucca, Italy)
Lucca Comics & Games celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026 under the theme “Legacy”. It is one of the largest pop culture festivals in the world, spread across the historic centre of Lucca, with areas for comics, video games, tabletop games and collectibles. If you love card games and fan culture, it is worth visiting at least once. Book tickets and accommodation early – the town fills up fast.
Festival International des Jeux – 26–28 February 2027 (Cannes, France)
The Cannes Games Festival reaches its 40th edition in 2027. The Palais des Festivals turns into a giant playground with board games, role-playing games, video games and collectible cards, plus tournaments and a festival village. A great winter trip for players and collectors.
What to bring to a card event
- Sleeves and toploaders for every card you buy or trade on the day. Soft sleeves and toploaders take up almost no space.
- A trade binder with your duplicates, organised by set or value.
- Your favourite card on show – a trading card phone case is an instant conversation starter in the trading area.
- A want list of the cards you are looking for, and a rough idea of current market prices.
- Cash and a power bank – queues and card readers don't always cooperate.
Tips for trading at conventions
Check card condition under good light before you trade, keep high-value cards in toploaders rather than loose, and never hand your whole binder to a stranger. Trading is about fun and community, so take your time.
Dates are based on the organisers' announcements at the time of writing. Always check the official event websites before you travel.
Going to one of these events? Show us your setup on social media and tag Mintcased – we love seeing your collections.