Fanatics Fest 2026: LeBron, World Cup & Star Throwbacks

The Javits Center will transform into a four‑day playground blending Coachella’s vibe with Comic‑Con’s collectibles on July 14‑18. An extra 25% of floor space will be utilized, promising a record crowd of 200,000 ticketholders and 400 superstar appearances. Admission runs $81.54 for Thursday, Friday and Sunday, with Saturday tickets at $93.19, while a World Cup final takes place just outside on Sunday.

Thursday Highlights

LeBron James teams up with Tyrese Haliburton for a live taping of the “Mind the Game” podcast at 1:15 p.m. The NBA buzz is already high following Kevin Durant’s January trade from the Suns to the Rockets. NFL commissioner Roger Goodell and host Taylor Rooks host a Disney fan draft at 2:45 p.m., previewing a major ABC/ESPN partnership for next February’s Super Bowl.

Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart continue their Knicks championship tour with the “Roommates Show” at 4:15 p.m., welcoming Aaron Judge. The duo’s game‑day hype mirrors the city’s lingering Knicks fever after a 53‑year title drought. Meanwhile, Kevin Hart kicks off his “Cold As Balls” podcast series in heated tubs, featuring iShowSpeed and Rob Gronkowski. Inter Milan’s unveiling of the 2026‑27 away kit at 6:45 p.m. spotlights Christian Vieri.

Photo ops dominate the day’s schedule. Brunson’s portrait is already sold out at $937.40, as is Hart’s for $283.40. Fans can still snag David Ortiz for $348.80, Mariano Rivera for $337.90, and Roger Clemens for $283.40.

Friday Highlights

ESPN brings its “First Take” live to the Javits Center, with Stephen A. Smith sharing the stage with Logan Paul and WWE talent at 9:45 a.m. Later, Gayle King moderates a “Top of the Game” panel at 10:30 a.m., pairing Djokovic, Diana Taurasi, Derek Jeter and Alex Morgan.

If LeBron does not announce a new team Thursday, he returns for “The Shop” at 12 p.m., joined by hosts Steelo Brim and Travis Bennett, plus Klutch Sports client Folarin Balogun. A 12:30 p.m. leadership discussion features Tom Brady, Serena Williams, James Harden, Candace Parker and Lindsey Vonn. FIFA’s World Cup final press conference at 5:15 p.m. brings Rio Ferdinand to interview Gianni Infantino and players from the two finalists.

Ticketed meet‑and‑greets fill the afternoon. Karl‑Anthony Towns is sold out at $337.90, while Mitchell Robinson ($168.95) and Jordan Clarkson ($114.45) remain available. Antoine Griezmann and Kaka are already snapped up, leaving Scottie Pippen at $664.90, Gronkowski at $408.75 and Alex Rodriguez at $321.55 as premium options.

Saturday Highlights

The “Nightcap” podcast with Shannon Sharpe and Chad Ochocinco debuts at 10:30 a.m., featuring Brunson and Roman Reigns, hinting at a collaboration for the evening’s WWE event at Madison Square Garden. Kings Of New York, hosted by Rooks at 12:15 p.m., reunites Brunson, Towns, Hart and Mikal Bridges for championship memories.

Gaming fans gather for a 1:30 p.m. “Call of Duty” panel hosted by Katie Nolan, with Kevin Durant and “Obsession” star Inde Navarrette discussing the franchise’s cultural impact. The 2:30 p.m. Men In Blazers episode pairs Victor Wembanyama and Spike Lee for World Cup speculation. Draymond Green’s podcast at 3 p.m. welcomes Tiffany Haddish, AJ Dybantsa and Dominique Wilkins.

Photo‑op lines stretch into the evening. Mikal Bridges is sold out at $283.40. Additional signatures are available from Jose Alvarado ($168.95), Mike Brown ($168.95), Landry Shamet ($141.70), Deuce McBride ($141.70) and Tyler Kolek ($114.45). Top‑priced spots include Brett Favre ($474.15), Floyd Mayweather ($392.40) and Randy Moss ($354.25).

Sunday Highlights

The Joint Venture, a late‑night podcast hosted by Lil’ Wayne and Craig Carton, launches at 10:30 a.m., featuring Eli Manning, Darrelle Revis and Amar’e Stoudemire, with a second taping later. The 12 p.m. Fanatics Games closing ceremony will crown a champion, with Tom Brady as host after beating Justin Gaethje last year.

Travis Scott takes the main stage at 1:15 p.m. for “Cactus Jack and Friends Live,” promising a millennial‑focused spectacle. Men In Blazers returns at 2:30 p.m., bringing Balogun and special guests to watch Spain versus Argentina for the World Cup title.

Best‑available signed moments include Eli Manning ($212.55), Charles Woodson ($316.10), CM Punk ($228.90) and Henrik Lundqvist ($228.90). Jaxson Dart’s slot is already sold out at $228.90, reflecting overwhelming interest in the top prospects.

The festival’s four‑day run, expanded space, and ticket pricing underscore its role as the year’s largest sports‑collectibles gathering. With major leagues, gaming titles and music acts intertwined, Fanatics Fest 2026 offers a snapshot of what fans worldwide are craving heading into 2026.