The monthly card show held at Avery Trace Middle School has solidified its position as a destination for collectors in Middle Tennessee, drawing record attendance at its latest event. Held on the first Saturday of each month, the show boasts an impressive array of sports cards, Pokémon and other trading card games (TCG), and sports memorabilia, featuring between 65 and 75 dealers and over 135 tables.
The most recent show held last month saw a remarkable turnout of over 300 attendees, demonstrating the growing popularity of the event and the thriving collector community in the region. With 75% of the dealer tables already booked for the upcoming June 7 show, anticipation is high for another successful gathering. Organizers emphasize that there is still ample space for more collectors to attend and engage with the wide variety of items on offer.
Joe Kalis, organizer of the Upper Cumberland Card Show, expressed his enthusiasm for the event’s continued success. “Our goal is to create a fun, family-friendly event that brings collectors together from all over Middle Tennessee,” Kalis stated. “Whether you’re into sports cards, Pokémon, memorabilia, or vintage collectibles—there’s truly something here for everyone.”
The family-friendly event, running from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., offers more than just buying and selling opportunities. Attendees can enjoy the convenience of 2-3 on-site food trucks, participate in giveaways totaling over $300 and young enthusiasts can take advantage of free cards. The nominal $1 admission fee contributes directly to supporting Avery Trace Youth Athletics, making the event a valuable community initiative.
The show consistently attracts a diverse range of vendors, as Kalis explained. “We bring together 60 to 75 top vendors each month, offering everything from $1 cards to rare high-end grails. It’s the perfect place to buy, sell, trade, and connect with people who love the hobby as much as you do.”
Having hosted 13 monthly shows to date, Kalis remarked on the trajectory of the event. “We’ve now hosted 13 monthly shows, and each one keeps getting bigger and better. The dealer tables sell out faster, attendance continues to grow, and the energy in the room is electric. It’s clear that the hobby is alive and thriving here in Middle Tennessee.”
The next Upper Cumberland Card Show will take place on June 7, 2025, at Avery Trace Middle School, located at 230 Raider Drive, Cookeville, TN, 38501. Subsequent shows are scheduled for August 2, September 6, October 4, November 1 and December 6, with July being skipped.
Looking ahead, Kalis emphasized the commitment to creating a positive experience for both dealers and attendees. “We believe in doing things the right way—great communication with our dealers, affordable table rates, and ongoing giveaways to make it a fun experience. This is more than a card show—it’s a monthly tradition for collectors across the region.”
For more information about the show, including upcoming dates and dealer inquiries, visit www.UpperCumberlandCards.com or the Facebook page, UpperCumberlandCards. Interested parties can also contact Joe Kalis directly at 931-229-0642 or via email at joe@UpperCumberlandCards.com.
