RAPID CITY, S.D. – The Central States Fair is hosting its first-ever trading card show this year, giving lifelong collectors and curious beginners a chance to explore one of the fastest-growing hobbies in the country right here in Rapid City.

The First Edition Central States Fair Trading Card Show will feature 40 vendors from across the Midwest. Over the two-day event, attendees can buy, sell, trade and browse an incredible variety of trading cards and collectibles. Available inventory will span thousands of cards, including sports cards and popular trading card games such as Pokemon, One Piece, Magic: The Gathering, Yu-Gi-Oh! and Lorcana.

The show will take place in the Creative Arts Building on the west side of the Central States Fairgrounds. Operating hours are scheduled from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22, and from noon to 7 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23. Entry to the family-friendly event for all ages is included with a paid fair admission.

Organizers emphasize that no experience is necessary and there is no pressure to buy. Attendees are encouraged to explore the booths, meet fellow collectors, ask questions and discover why trading cards continue to captivate generations of fans.

“Getting back into collecting cards has brought me back to my childhood,” said card enthusiast Kitt Jeffries. “I still have all my childhood Pokemon cards and sports cards, as well as the ones I’ve purchased as an adult. I regularly attend the trade nights at our local card stores.”

For collectors like Jeffries, the hobby also provides a unique way to celebrate Rapid City history.

“I remember how excited I was when hometown hero Adam Vinatieri autographed one of my cards,” Jeffries said. “He is a Rapid City native and a four-time Super Bowl champion and I still have that card in my personal collection sitting right next to a Pikachu of course. I think this will be an awesome two-day community event for all ages to enjoy during the Central States Fair.”