Longview, Texas – This Saturday, the Longview Exhibit Center at 1123 Jaycee Drive will host the Cardboard Cove trading‑card expo, a family‑friendly gathering for hobbyists, collectors and pop‑culture enthusiasts. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering a full day of activities designed to celebrate the hobby and bring the community together.
What to Expect
Cardboard Cove will feature roughly 70 tables of vendors selling a wide range of trading cards, from vintage baseball and basketball cards to the latest Pokémon, Magic: The Gathering and sports‑card releases. Attendees can browse, trade, and purchase items while chatting with knowledgeable dealers.
Beyond the vendor hall, the expo includes a cosplay competition where participants showcase hand‑crafted costumes inspired by favorite characters from comics, anime and video games. Winners will receive prizes and recognition from local judges.
Fans will also have the chance to hear celebrity voice actors perform live readings and sign autographs. The schedule lists several short sessions throughout the day, giving attendees multiple opportunities to meet the guests.
Interactive Fun for All Ages
An immersive scavenger hunt will wind through the exhibit space, encouraging families to solve clues and collect stamps for a chance to win additional giveaways. The hunt is designed to be accessible for children and adults alike, reinforcing the event’s community‑oriented spirit.
Speaking about the expo, Kevin Dunlap, the show director, said, “It’s not as though East Texas has never seen a car show. I just don’t think it’s ever seen anything quite like this. So I’m really excited for all the collectors that are going to get to come out here and have an awesome time.”
Why This Matters to Longview
Cardboard Cove adds to Longview’s growing roster of events that draw visitors from across East Texas, supporting local businesses and providing a safe, family‑focused environment for recreation. The Exhibit Center’s central location makes it easy for residents of Gregg County and neighboring areas to attend without a long drive.
Local merchants anticipate a boost in foot traffic, especially those located near the venue. Restaurants, coffee shops and retail stores can expect increased patronage before and after the expo, contributing to the city’s economic vitality.
Practical Details
Admission is free, though some vendors may charge for premium items or special services. Parking is available on‑site at the Exhibit Center’s lot, and the venue is fully accessible for guests with disabilities. Attendees are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles and wear masks if they feel more comfortable, though the venue follows current health guidelines.
For a complete schedule, vendor list and updates, visit the Cardboard Cove website or follow the event’s social‑media pages. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a casual fan, or simply looking for a fun Saturday outing, Cardboard Cove offers a welcoming space to celebrate a shared passion for trading cards and pop‑culture.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
