When I saw the Hibbing Card Show on the schedule a few months back, I circled it as one I definitely wanted to check out. I made the long but beautiful drive up to the Hibbing Armory this past Saturday, May 3rd. The event, believed to be the first show in Hibbing in around 20 years, drew over 30 dealers and filled the venue with nearly 40 tables of trading cards, each offering a unique slice of the hobby.
Sports cards dominated the scene, with a particularly strong presence of vintage selections—seven dealers showcased classic pieces, including an incredible 1959 Topps Hank Aaron autograph. As expected, hockey cards were more prevalent than at most other shows I’ve been to, reflecting the local love for the sport. Meanwhile, 10 tables were packed with TCG and even some tables sold custom memorabilia so there was a pretty good mix overall.
It’s rare to step into a card show and immediately feel the energy fill the room like this. The significance of this return wasn’t lost on attendees or dealers alike. You could tell that this show filled a void. The concessions kept people fueled for the day, reinforcing the festival-like atmosphere.
The impact of this show stretched beyond Hibbing, pulling in a dedicated contingent from surrounding areas. Many dealers I talked to made the commute from the Duluth-Superior area to set up, showcasing the event’s regional pull. The collector base was equally diverse, with attendees traveling from across the Iron Range and even from Wisconsin to be part of it. The strong turnout emphasized how much pent-up demand there is for a thriving card scene in northern Minnesota.
One of the standout presences at the show was Ward Trading Card Company, a locally founded success story that added an extra layer of significance to the event. Based right out of Hibbing, Ward has created its own trading card game, built with an intentionally simple gameplay style. Their booth was a centerpiece of the show—not only displaying their products but actively engaging attendees in live gameplay at their dedicated tables. These tables were bustling the entire time, showcasing the growing excitement around Ward and its unique place in the TCG market. I was especially impressed with the artwork of their cards.
With the triumphant return of the Hibbing Card Show, one question now lingers—will it become a staple in the card show circuit? Judging by the turnout, the energy, and the enthusiasm from collectors and dealers, the answer seems like a resounding yes. This show was proof that the hobby thrives in Hibbing, and with the momentum generated by this event, there’s hope that it will continue to grow in the years to come.
