Hate to miss such an occasion; if you are into trading cards be it sports cards, Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering, or vintage collectibles then the Portland Card Show is one of the events you cannot skip. It is a giant playground full of collectors. I have been there several times and frankly speaking, it is more about the atmosphere and people rather than cards.
When and Where
The show is normally held four times in a year, once per season spring, summer, fall, winter. The date may change so it is better to check their site or social media to be certain.
Location: The majority of the shows take place in Portland convention halls or expo centers. There is no lack of space to walk, hunt, and talk to dealers.
Hours: Mostly 10 AM -5 PM, although certain VIPs or dealers receive early entry.
Bonus tip: Show up early particularly when you are in search of rare cards. The first mover can actually get the rookie card.
What You’ll Find
Sports Cards: NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL--do it yourself. There are dealers who are tables high to the floor.
Trading Card Games: Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, Magic: The Gathering and lots of older TCG, too.
Vintage Cards: Rookie Cards, Signed Memorabilia, and Pro-Graded Gems.
Several hundred dealers took up their stalls, and many of them were outside Portland. Others go as far as on-the-spot grading, authentication and appraisals which is excellent when you really wonder what a card you carried home is worth.
Travel Tips to Keep in Mind.
Think it through: It is all too easy to get lost. Know what you’re hunting for.
Bring Card Supplies: Sleeves, top loaders and binders will save you in the event you are making purchases on-site.
Check Dealer Listings: Dealer lists rare cards online (in advance of the show).
Wear Comfy Shoes: To walk and to see much.
Establish a Budget: Believe me, you are tempted to spend much more than you were.
Extra Fun Stuff
Raffles & Giveaways: Dealers, at times, do raffles on booster packs or signed cards.
Trading: Trade your duplicates--time half full trading!
Networking: Get to know other collectors, share stories and get to know a more experienced hobbyist.