The Long Island TCG Show is back this weekend, bringing thousands of collectors, players, and fans to the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale for a two-day celebration of trading card culture.
Set for Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3, the event continues its rapid rise after back-to-back wins as Four Leaf’s Best of Long Island for Best Annual Event or Festival. Organizers say this year’s show builds on that momentum with expanded programming, high-profile guests, and interactive experiences across the convention floor.
Where the Cards Come Alive
At its core, the show remains a massive marketplace for trading card fans. Vendors from across the region will fill the Coliseum with Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Magic: The Gathering cards, ranging from vintage collectibles to the latest releases. For longtime collectors, it is a chance to hunt for rare finds. For newer fans, it is an entry point into a rapidly growing hobby that continues to surge in popularity.
A Tournament With Stakes
Competitive players will have their eyes on the two-day Pokémon tournament, which features a 64-player cap and a structured Swiss format. The event runs both days, with top finishers earning booster boxes and packs from the Pokémon Perfect Order set. Participants must hold tickets for both days, adding a layer of commitment and strategy to the competition.
One Piece Voices Take the Stage
Fans of One Piece can catch a live panel on Saturday at 3:00 p.m. on the main stage, featuring voice actors Eric Vale, Sonny Strait, Justin Cook, and John Swasey. Vale is known as the English voice of Sanji, while Strait voices Usopp. Cook has voiced characters including Eustass Kid and Bellamy, and Swasey is known for roles such as Crocodile and Gan Fall. The panel is scheduled to include a fan Q&A and discussion tied to their work on the series.
Pokémon Voices and Creators Meet Fans
Pokémon fans will have the chance to see a lineup of talent from across the franchise, including Dan Green, known for voicing Mewtwo and Professor Birch, Eric Stuart, the voice of Brock and James, Ted Lewis, who voiced Giovanni, and Amy Birnbaum, known for roles including Max. Additional special appearances are set for Jason Paige, the original Pokémon theme song singer, and Chris Maple, designer of the Pokémon logo, at the NXT Legaci booth. Autographs and photo opportunities are expected to be available at the show.
Cosplay Takes the Stage
Cosplay remains a centerpiece of the event’s community feel. The cosplay contest will take place Saturday at 4:30 p.m., featuring pre-judging sessions where participants meet with judges, followed by a stage presentation on the main stage. Prizes include gift cards, tickets to future events, and special Judge’s Awards, with contestants showcasing their costumes and creative work.
Drinks With a Theme
This year introduces themed drinks at the Coliseum concession stands, tying the event’s atmosphere directly into popular franchises. Options include the “All Blue Breeze,” inspired by One Piece, and “Heart of the Cards,” a nod to Yu-Gi-Oh!, along with a kid-friendly Pikachu-themed lemonade. Alcoholic beverages will be available for attendees 21 and older with valid identification.
A Special Sunday Guest
Sunday’s lineup adds a rare appearance by Andrew Choi, known for his work in music and his performance contributions to KPop Demon Hunters. Organizers say autograph sessions and fan interactions will be available during the day.
A Growing Long Island Event
After expanding into a two-day format last year, the Long Island TCG Show has continued to scale, drawing larger crowds and broader attention across the region. Organizers credit the community for its growth, pointing to strong turnout and ongoing support from collectors, creators, and fans.
Doors open at 11 a.m. both days, with VIP and early access beginning at 10 a.m. The event runs until 6 p.m. Saturday and 5 p.m. Sunday at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum, located at 1255 Hempstead Turnpike in Uniondale. For more information head over to their website.
