About TCG Card Shows in the Northern Virginia & DC Area
The Northern Virginia, DC, and Maryland region has a thriving trading card show scene. From large convention-style events at the Dulles Expo Center to smaller community shows at local hotels and fire halls, there are opportunities nearly every weekend to buy, sell, and trade Pokémon TCG and Magic: The Gathering cards. This page lists upcoming card shows within a two-hour drive of Northern Virginia, including events in Richmond, Baltimore, Hampton Roads, and the Delaware-Maryland peninsula.
Magna's Market attends many of these shows both as a vendor and as a buyer. We created this events page to help fellow collectors and vendors plan their show schedule. Each event listing includes the venue, address, date, hours, and a link to the event's official website for tickets and vendor information. We mark whether we'll be vending (selling at a table) or visiting (walking the floor as a buyer).
What to Expect at a TCG Card Show
Card shows typically feature 20-100 vendor tables, each displaying cards for sale and trade. Most shows charge a small admission fee ($5-15) at the door, with some offering early-bird entry for an additional fee. Vendor tables usually cost $50-200 depending on the show size and location. Shows run anywhere from 4 hours (single-day hotel shows) to full weekend events.
At a typical show you'll find vendors selling raw cards, graded slabs (PSA, BGS, CGC), sealed product, and supplies. Many vendors also buy cards, so if you're looking to sell, bring your collection. Some shows also host side events like pack battles, drafts, or meet-and-greets with artists. The best deals are usually found early in the show (best selection) and late in the show (vendors discounting to avoid packing up inventory).
Tips for Attending Card Shows
Bring cash. While many vendors accept payment apps like Venmo, CashApp, and Zelle, cash is universally accepted and sometimes gets you a better deal. ATMs at venues often run out or charge high fees.
Know your prices. Use our Pokémon Top 25 Price Tracker and MTG Top 25 Price Tracker to check current market values before you go. Having price data on your phone (cached for offline use) helps you spot good deals and avoid overpaying.
Inspect cards carefully. Look for surface scratches, edge wear, corner damage, and centering issues. If you're buying for grading, these flaws matter. Don't be afraid to ask a vendor to step into better lighting to examine a card.
Bring a wants list. Use our Pokémon Master Checklist or MTG Master Checklist to export a CSV of cards you need. Having a specific list keeps you focused and prevents impulse buys.
Negotiate respectfully. Most vendors expect some negotiation, especially on higher-value cards. A reasonable offer is 10-20% below the asking price. Don't lowball — vendors remember respectful buyers and often give them better deals in the future.
Types of TCG Shows
Multi-sport card shows — These shows feature sports cards alongside TCG cards. TCG selection varies by vendor. Examples include the Richmond Card Show and NOVA Card Show.
TCG-focused shows — Dedicated entirely to trading card games. These tend to have the best selection of Pokémon and MTG cards, with vendors who specialize in TCG. Watch for events at game stores and convention centers.
Convention-style events — Large weekend events (6+ hours) with 50+ vendors, celebrity guests, side events, and sometimes tournaments. These are the best for finding rare and high-end cards but also draw the biggest crowds.
