Connect with us

Events

Inside The Hobby Card Show 2025

Published

on

Autographs, Action Figures and Florida’s Own Stanley Cup Champions: The Hobby Card Show Had Fans Flipping, Fumbling, and Fighting for Their Favorite Cards.

August 23rd – 24th, 2025

The Hobby Card Show returned to the Broward County Convention Center this past August, drawing collectors, families, and fans eager to explore one of South Florida’s most exciting hobby events.

The show floor stretched with vendors offering everything from vintage sports cards and rare graded finds to Pokémon, Funko Pops, comic books, and retro video games. High-end treasures like a six-figure Kobe LeBron Jordan card sat just a few tables away from affordable packs that kept kids tearing into fresh rips. The combination of big-ticket collectibles and accessible finds created a lively balance for both seasoned hobbyists and newcomers.

Athlete appearances were the centerpiece. Fans lined up for Stanley Cup champions Brad Marchand, Ryan Lomberg, and Nick Cousins. Miami Heat legend Udonis Haslem drew some of the weekend’s loudest cheers, while UFC fighter Austin Vanderford brought MMA fans into the mix. Hall of Famers like Jim Kelly and Andre Dawson added even more star power with autograph sessions.

Families found plenty to enjoy as well. Pokémon tables were crowded with younger collectors, and some dealers offered interactive games that gave kids free packs and prizes. Adults chased their childhood favorites while kids discovered the thrill of collecting for the first time. The event created a space where nostalgia met new enthusiasm, and both longtime fans and newcomers felt welcomed.

Organizers reported more than 6,000 attendees, over double last year’s turnout. With that surge in momentum, next year’s edition of The Hobby Card Show is already slated to expand into a larger space to accommodate an even bigger crowd.

The show succeeded in blending nostalgia with fresh excitement. Lifelong fans stood shoulder to shoulder with kids ripping open their first packs, and that sense of community gave the event its spark.


Highlights from the Interviews

Ryan Lomberg reflected on his championship season and memorable moments with the Florida Panthers:

fan poses with Ryan Lomberg at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

“Yeah, that year… probably spraying my coaches with champagne. That was something I’ll never forget. Seeing my teammates lift the Cup and drink out of it, and having my parents in the locker room after the game—it was a really special moment that I’ll always remember.”

On the difference between Florida and Calgary fans:

“I don’t want to say anything bad about either fan group since they’re both phenomenal. Hockey is more embedded in Canadian culture, so more people are aware of what’s happening with the Flames. There are definitely passionate fans in South Florida…you see examples like today.”

On the new Fighting League having an event at Amerant Bank Arena called Bare Knuckle Ice Wars:

“I’m more of a hockey player, but it sounds great. I’d definitely be interested in going to watch it.”

On fighting in hockey and personal limits:

“There’s always a few guys I’d rather not fight, but sometimes it happens. Going into the year, there are always two or three guys on that list who I’m not going to fight them unless they hurt a teammate or do something that has to be addressed. Last year, there was one guy in Columbus, (Mathieu) Olivier, who was on my no fight list, and I ended up fighting him. There’s always a few, but somehow, I still find my way.”

Keith Yandle reflected on career highlights and memorable goals with the Florida Panthers:

Keith Yandle hangs with fans at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

“Honestly, probably the thing I think of the most is the goal that Barkov scored against Carey Price, between the legs. He was obviously an amazing player before that, but that moment really put him on the map, and he’s lived up to the hype ever since. I’d also say just seeing the guys I played with, like Ekblad and Barkov, grow over the years, winning these cups, and what that meant to the city—that’s probably been my number one highlight.”

On playing through injuries:

“There were definitely times I wasn’t feeling 100 percent, but you go out there and do it anyway. Just showing your teammates that you’re willing to play through pain earns respect.”

On the Panthers’ evolution:

“I go back to the year we lost to Tampa in seven games in the first round. Losing that series sucked at the time, but it propelled the team into what they’ve accomplished over the last three years, including playing in three Stanley Cups. It’s amazing to even think about.”

On friends off the ice but rivals on it:

“So many. Probably Brad Marchand. I played with him in juniors in Moncton, and he’s obviously a great teammate and someone you want on your team. But when you play against him, he’s spearing you in the back of the legs or hitting you hard. Off the ice, you like these guys, but on the ice… Marchand’s the number one.”

Doc Gooden, visiting from Tampa, shared his experience with fans:

fan poses with Doc Gooden at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

“It’s always good to come home, meet the young fans, and for the older fans, just reminiscing a bit. Seeing kids get excited picking up your card and even getting a chance to have it autographed or take a photo with you, it’s very special. I’ve been retired for 25 years and to see kids still remember and recognize your playing career, it means a lot to me. I remember when I first got my own baseball card and what it meant to me. Now, seeing these kids have that moment with me is very special.”

On advice for young players:

“Go out, have fun, learn the game, listen to your coaches, develop, and get better each year. Playing in Florida, the weather’s great year-round, so you can take advantage of that. Just know not to wear your body down too much, don’t overdo it, but have fun. Take advantage of all the baseball history here. The main thing for kids when they’re young: go out, have fun, learn the game, listen to your coaches, develop, and get better each year.”

Austin Vanderford spoke about attending the show and interacting with fans:

“I’m a big sports card collector myself, so it’s fun to be integrated into the hobby and meet people. I love hearing everyone’s journey, it’s a really cool experience, and I’m honored to be here.”

On previously defeating the recent PFL Middleweight Tournament champion Fabian Edwards and respect that goes beyond the cage:

“The Edwards brothers are both incredible athletes and fighters. I just had a solid game plan going into my fight and was able to implement it. It’s cool to see him having success outside of our fight as well. Most of the time, it’s all cool after the fight. It’s such an intense, intimate experience…you’re in front of thousands, millions of people, going to war with someone else. Usually everything’s squashed afterward, but sometimes there’s some carryover. My last UFC fight had some bad blood after, I got shoved, had to throw up the double fingers, and that wasn’t a happy moment. Sometimes the adrenaline is still going, and you might want to do a little more damage. Outside of fighting, it’s peace and love, but once the cage doors shut, it’s time to compete. Unlike those people who argue and never fight, I respect the other fighters outside the cage. Paige (VanZant) doesn’t really need to step in and calm me down, we’re happy-go-lucky outside the cage.”

On preparing for his upcoming UFC fight vs Ramiz Brahimaj:

“Yeah, super excited. Right now, it’s all about dialing everything in and focusing on October 4th and going out there and performing. It’s a mix of studying opponents and relying on my own skill. I consider myself a cerebral fighter, so it’s important to find patterns and hone my approach. Fighting is 99 percent mental and 1 percent physical. Everyone’s physically gifted and tough, so it’s that mental edge I’m focusing on right now.”

  • fan poses with Nic Cousins at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • Keith Yandle hangs with fans at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • fan poses with Ryan Lomberg at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • fan poses with Ryan Lomberg at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • fans pose with Brad Marchand at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • UFC fighter Austin Vanderford at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • fan poses with Doc Gooden at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • fan poses with Doc Gooden at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • fan poses with Brad Marchand at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

  • Keith Yandle hangs with fans at The Hobby Card Show ©South Florida Insider

Coach is South Florida Insider's Owner, President, Webmaster, as well as a Reporter and Photographer covering events all over the world. Born in West Palm Beach, Coach continues to call the sunny Florida area home. He received his Associate degree from the University of South Florida, then transferred to the University of Florida where he received a Bachelor’s of Arts in Journalism & Communications. During his journalistic career, which has been featured in local newspapers and magazines as well as national publications, Coach has also continued his love of being an educator. It’s through both endeavors that he’s actively got students interested in following in the field of journalism. Coach loves sharing the world of entertainment with others and giving people the opportunity to step out of the everyday life.

Events

Fangtasia at Regatta Grove Brought Vampire Vibes and Spooky Cocktails to Miami

Published

on

From vampire bartenders and a neon coffin photo op to Halloween cocktails and waterfront dancing, Regatta Grove’s Fangtasia was a bloody good time.


November 2, 2026

Halloween in Miami just hits differently. While the rest of the country is bundling up for spooky season, we’re sipping cocktails by the water, dancing under the stars, and apparently hanging out with vampires.

And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.

Regatta Grove in Coconut Grove went all in for Halloween weekend with Fangtasia, a two-night vampire-inspired celebration on October 30 and 31 that turned the waterfront hotspot into a spooky little paradise.

We stopped by to see what all the fang-tastic fun was about, and between the elaborate costumes, DJ, festive cocktails, and vampire staff, there was plenty to love.

The first thing we noticed? Regatta Grove was fully committed to the theme.

Red Halloween decorations transformed the open-air venue, creating a moody atmosphere against the backdrop of Biscayne Bay. Guests showed up in elaborate costumes, bringing plenty of Halloween personality to an already lively setting.

But our favorite detail might have been the staff.

Every staff member was dressed as a vampire.

Yes, even the people making your drinks were embracing their undead era. It’s those little details that make themed events so much more fun, and Regatta Grove definitely understood the assignment.

And then there was the neon coffin photo op, because what’s a vampire party without somewhere to take a ridiculously good Halloween picture?

Let’s just say the photo opportunities were not lacking.

Now, obviously, we need to talk about the drinks.

Fangtasia featured three Halloween specialty cocktails made with Ketel One vodka, each with its own spooky personality.

The Ghoul’s Mule was a Halloween twist on the classic Moscow Mule, made with Ketel One vodka, ginger beer, strawberry, and lime. Fruity, refreshing, and just the right kind of festive for a warm Miami evening.

The Black Widow was one for the espresso martini lovers, combining Ketel One Espresso vodka, cold brew, and coffee liqueur. Dark, coffee-forward, and appropriately named for the occasion. We love a cocktail that matches the dress code.

And finally, the Bloody Good Martini mixed Ketel One vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and strawberry for a citrusy, fruity take on a Halloween martini.

Honestly, who needs a cauldron when the cocktail menu is already this fun?

One of the best things about Regatta Grove is its location. Set right along Biscayne Bay, the Coconut Grove venue already has that laid-back, tropical atmosphere that makes Miami nights so much fun.

But for Fangtasia, things got a little darker.

The red decorations, vampire costumes, and Halloween details gave the venue a completely different personality, while a great DJ kept the energy going throughout the celebration.

And the guests definitely brought their A-game. From elaborate costumes to all-out Halloween looks, the crowd was clearly having fun with the theme.

There was something especially entertaining about seeing such an eerie Halloween atmosphere mixed with palm trees, waterfront views, and Miami’s warm evening breeze.

A little spooky, a little glamorous, and very Miami.

Between the costumed crowd, vampire staff, themed cocktails, and neon coffin photo op, Fangtasia at Regatta Grove was such a fun way to celebrate Halloween in Coconut Grove.

What made the night memorable wasn’t just one big attraction. It was how all the details came together, from the music and decor to the staff getting in on the fun.

And really, a Halloween party where you can dance by Biscayne Bay, sip a Bloody Good Martini, and take photos in a glowing coffin? That’s pretty hard to beat.

Fangtasia may be over for this year, but we’re already curious to see what Regatta Grove has planned next.

Until then, we’ll be keeping our fangs crossed for another round next Halloween.

 

Regatta Grove | Coconut Grove, Miami

3415 Pan American Drive, Miami, FL 33133

Event: Fangtasia Halloween Celebration

Dates: October 30–31, 2026

Continue Reading

Events

South Beach Seafood Festival Brings The Boil

Published

on

Come for the Crab, Stay for the Party: South Beach Serves Up a Saturday Worth Savoring.

(more…)

Continue Reading

Events

Crab With a Side of Party

Published

on

South Beach Seafood Festival serves sweet stone crab, buttery shrimp and a Miami soundtrack worth sticking around for.

(more…)

Continue Reading

Events

Fright Nights Unleashed: Big Scares, Bold Bites and a Night to Remember

Published

on

Fright Nights Delivers Scares, Flavor and a Behind-the-Scenes Look at Halloween Magic.

(more…)

Continue Reading

Events

Boca’s South Florida Pickle Festival Proves to be a Big Dill

Published

on

By

From pickle-topped pizza and bucking cucumbers to pun-filled fashion and lively music, Boca Raton’s briniest celebration delivered plenty of flavor before lightning crashed the party. (more…)

Continue Reading

Events

Horrorland Scares Up a Frightfully Good Time

Published

on

By

Six haunted houses, sinister surprises and death-defying entertainment turn Miami’s Jungle Island into a scream-worthy playground where fear and fun collide. (more…)

Continue Reading

Events

The Wharf Fort Lauderdale Is Going Full Halloween, and We Want In!

Published

on

Horror movie villains on Friday, disco skeletons on Saturday, and two nights of Halloween chaos we absolutely cannot miss.


October 14, 2026

Okay, Fort Lauderdale, Halloween weekend is looking GOOD.

The Wharf Fort Lauderdale is giving us not one, but TWO completely different Halloween parties this year, and honestly, choosing between them feels unfair. One night we’re running from horror movie villains, and the next we’re dancing under disco balls with skeletons. What more could we possibly want?

Whether you’re the type who lives for a good scare or just wants an excuse to wear something outrageous and dance all night, The Wharf has plans for you.

And yes, we’re already thinking about costumes.

Friday, October 30: Slasher Drive-In

Remember when horror movies were all about creepy drive-in theaters, questionable decisions, and someone inevitably running in the wrong direction?

Well, The Wharf is bringing that energy back with Slasher Drive-In, an old-school horror-inspired Halloween party that sounds equal parts terrifying and ridiculously fun.

The venue is transforming into a vintage-style drive-in movie theater, complete with a throwback concession stand serving movie-night snacks.

Cute, right?

Except there’s one tiny problem.

Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees, Ghostface, and Leatherface are all on the guest list.

Yes, the horror icons themselves will be roaming around the venue throughout the night, so maybe think twice before wandering off alone.

We love a good Halloween theme, but this one sounds like you’re stepping straight into your favorite slasher movie. Except instead of screaming at the characters on screen, you might actually be the one doing the screaming.

And honestly? We’re kind of into it.

Saturday, October 31: ‘Til Death Do Us Party

Now THIS is our kind of afterlife.

On Halloween night, The Wharf is trading horror movie scares for a full-blown disco takeover with ‘Til Death Do Us Party, where Studio 54 meets the great beyond.

Think glitter, mirror balls, disco skeletons, fabulous costumes, and a dance floor that refuses to rest in peace.

It’s spooky, it’s glamorous, and it’s giving us every reason to break out the sequins.

There will also be a costume contest, plenty of photo opportunities, and a special menu of $12 Halloween cocktails, because what’s a disco in the afterlife without a little something spooky to sip?

We’re picturing outrageous outfits, sparkly accessories, and a whole lot of dancing. If you’ve been saving a dramatic Halloween look for the perfect occasion, this might be it.

And can we just appreciate a Halloween party that doesn’t make us choose between looking fabulous and embracing the spooky season?

So, Which Night Are We Going?

Here’s the thing. We genuinely cannot decide.

Friday is for horror movie lovers who want to hang out with the villains they’ve spent years being terrified of.

Saturday is for the disco queens, costume enthusiasts, and anyone who believes Halloween should involve a little glitter and a lot of dancing.

Our solution? Both. Obviously.

Halloween only comes around once a year, and The Wharf Fort Lauderdale is making a pretty convincing case for clearing the entire weekend.

So call your friends, start planning those costumes, and prepare for two nights that sound way too fun to stay home for.

Because whether you’re running from Ghostface or dancing with the dead, one thing’s for sure: Fort Lauderdale isn’t going to be boring this Halloween.

The Halloween Weekend Details

Where: The Wharf Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Friday, October 30: Slasher Drive-In, featuring horror movie characters, drive-in theater vibes, and movie-night snacks.

Saturday, October 31: ‘Til Death Do Us Party, featuring a Halloween disco, costume contest, photo ops, and $12 specialty cocktails.

The vibe: A little spooky, a little fabulous, and absolutely worth getting dressed up for.

Continue Reading

Events

Regatta Grove Is Getting Spooky, and Fangtasia Might Be Our Favorite Halloween Plan Yet!

Published

on

Vampire vibes, waterfront cocktails, and two nights of Halloween fun on Biscayne Bay? We’re so in.


Okay, Miami, THIS is the kind of Halloween we’re talking about.

Picture this: you’re sipping a cocktail by the water, the sun is setting over Biscayne Bay, there’s a breeze coming off the water, and suddenly your favorite waterfront hangout has entered its vampire era.

Welcome to Fangtasia at Regatta Grove, where Halloween meets Miami’s favorite kind of night out.

Taking over Regatta Grove on Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31, Fangtasia is bringing a darker, moodier twist to the waterfront spot we already love. And honestly, vampires and cocktails by the bay? We’re listening.

There’s something about Regatta Grove that makes an ordinary night feel like a mini vacation. The waterfront views, the open air, the tropical atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you show up for a drink and somehow lose track of time.

Now imagine all of that with a spooky Halloween twist.

Fangtasia is bringing the Halloween spirit to Coconut Grove without losing the laid-back coastal charm that makes Regatta Grove so much fun in the first place.

Think mysterious waterfront vibes, wicked cocktails, and the perfect excuse to embrace your dark side for the evening.

And can we talk about how good a vampire-inspired Halloween party sounds against a Miami sunset?

We’re already obsessed with the idea.

Listen, we love a haunted house. We love a good Halloween party. But there’s something especially appealing about celebrating spooky season with a cocktail in hand and Biscayne Bay as your backdrop.

No need to choose between your favorite Miami waterfront hangout and getting into the Halloween spirit. Fangtasia is giving us both.

Whether you’re going all out with your costume or just looking for somewhere fun to spend Halloween weekend, this is the kind of plan that’s easy to get excited about.

And with two nights to choose from, there’s really no excuse not to get a little fang-tastic.

If your Halloween group chat is still full of “What are we doing?” messages, consider this your answer.

Regatta Grove is already one of those places we love finding an excuse to visit, and throwing a vampire-inspired celebration into the mix just makes it better.

Grab your favorite people, embrace the spooky season, and make your way to Coconut Grove for a Halloween weekend with a little bite.

Because really, who wouldn’t want to spend Halloween sipping cocktails by the bay?

Fangtasia at Regatta Grove

Where: Regatta Grove, Coconut Grove, Miami

When: Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31, 2026

The Vibe: Moody waterfront Halloween fun, wicked cocktails, and a vampire-inspired twist on a Miami favorite.

Our take? Halloween by the water with a little vampire energy sounds like a pretty perfect night to us.

Continue Reading

Trending