2024
52 Plus Joker
Playing Card Convention
Rub shoulders with legendary collectors and designers, mingle with top-tier card manufacturers, and engage in endless conversations about playing cards with fellow enthusiasts. It’s a unique playing card experience YOU’LL LOVE! Plus, it’s Judy Dawson’s final convention. Don’t miss this event.
Held At Sheraton Niagara Falls
Oct. 2nd – Oct. 6th, 2024
$50 Registration Fee
The Perfect Location
We’re super excited about hosting the 52 Plus Joker convention at the Sheraton Niagara Falls in lovely Niagara Falls, New York. Our hotel is just what we need for a fantastic convention experience. We are at 300 3rd Street, Niagara Falls, NY, 14303, USA. Book your room here and use the code 52PlusJokerConvention24.
A Unique Experience
Join us at the 52 Plus Joker’s annual convention for the ultimate playing card experience! It’s a haven for antique, vintage, and modern collectors alike. Whether you’re into singles or the whole deck, our friendly gathering guarantees a fantastic time for everyone!
A Playing Card Dream
Never been to a 52 Plus Joker convention? Check out this article by Dr. Joseph Zompetti. It’ll give you a great idea of what to expect.
What Are You Waiting For?
Our 2024 Events
Although our schedule is still in the works, anticipate the grand reveal of the 2024 club deck and more at the New Deck Launch reception. Brace yourself for engaging speakers (listed below), lively trading sessions, fast-paced auctions, and a closing buffet banquet featuring the Diamond Awards ceremony. The 2024 convention is gearing up to be our most thrilling playing card event of the year.
KELSEY LITTLE
Modern Collector Survival Guide
Thursday Oct. 3rd, 2024 @2:15 PM
With over 5600 total decks, including 2800 unique ones, and nearly 100 card clips, Little’s dedication is unmatched. Discover the passion and precision behind managing and maintaining such a remarkable collection as she pulls back the curtains to reveal her secrets. No matter what you collect, this is a must-see talk.
DANIEL WILSON
Game Show Playing Cards
Saturday Oct. 5th, 2024 @2:00 PM
‘Come on down’ and explore the history of television game shows and their use of playing cards. From favorites like ‘Card Sharks’ to shows almost lost to obscurity, Wilson will show some of the surviving pieces of these exciting games—and tell how you too might just find your own game show collectible, if the price is right.
SKYLER HOFFMAN
Playing Card Artistry
Thursday Oct. 3rd, 2024 @3:00 PM
Through vivid storytelling and insightful commentary, Hoffman offers fresh perspectives on the symbiotic relationship between artistry and playing cards. His presentation leaves attendees with a newfound appreciation for the art form and a desire to view playing cards through a new lens. Art and cards unite!
COLIN BRADY
The Pelican Brief
Friday Oct. 4th, 2024 @1:30 PM
Colin Brady invites you to explore the wonders inside his famous pelican briefcase, where he stores some of his most valued antique playing cards. Known for his passion and deep knowledge, Brady will show and tell his favorite decks, each with a fascinating backstory. His talk promises to offer collectors and enthusiasts a glimpse into his remarkable collection.
JUDY DAWSON
Her Farewell Convention
Friday Oct. 4th, 2024 @2:15 PM
You’re invited to join us for a momentous occasion. Judy will share her extraordinary journey in card collecting with her beloved partner, Tom. More than just a presentation, her words celebrate a legacy shaping our community. Be captivated by Judy’s tales of rare finds, editing Clear The Decks, and the evolution of the Dawson’s remarkable collection.
ELETTRA DEGANELLO
2024 Club Deck Designer
Thursday Oct. 3rd, 2024 @8:00 PM
Our talented artist, Elettra Deganello, is set to redefine our annual playing card club deck, bringing a fresh perspective and innovative designs that will captivate and inspire. Stay tuned for exclusive insights and sneak peeks into her creative process, leading up to the grand reveal of the masterpiece she has crafted for us on Thursday, October 3rd, 2024.*Please note this line-up may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Check this website regularly for updates.
2024 Panel Discussion
Time: Sat. Oct. 5th, 2024 @ 2:45 PM
A mix of collectors, designers, producers, manufacturers and speculators sit on a panel and answer important questions from audience members to exchange progressive ideas about the current state of playing card culture.
Register For The Convention Then Book Your Hotel Room.
Secure your spot at the convention and lock in your accommodations at the Sheraton Niagara Falls—all under one roof! Enjoy an exclusive rate of $109 + $9.95 resort fee + tax per night, and complimentary parking for our driving attendees. Hit the green button to reserve your convention spot. We look forward to welcoming you!
Register, then we will send you information about booking your hotel room at the Sheraton Niagara Falls, New York.
Hotel Amenities
Free Parking
If you're driving to the convention, hotel parking is one expense you don't have to incur. Free for all registered guests.
Complimentary Wifi
It's important to stay in touch with the world. Internet access is complimentary in your hotel room and all public spaces.
Near Seneca Casino
Our hotel enjoys a prime location, situated directly across the street from the renowned Seneca Casino.
Jacuzzi Tub
After a long day of playing card events, there's no better way to relax than with hot bubbles. Get in the Hot tub!
Indoor Pool
Stay fit and in shape while attending 52 Plus Joker's convention. Come on in! The water is nice and warm. No splashing!
Business Center
Need to send a quick email but forgot your computer? How about printing an important document? Use this free center.
What's in store for this year's convention?
This schedule is subject to change without notice.
Final Night > Diamond Awards
It all culminates on Saturday evening!
Deck of the Year
Which pack of cards gets crowned deck of 2024? Only outstanding decks get nominated. The best of the best win.
Artist of the Year
Recognized as the most prestigious accolade given to playing card designers in the industry. The artist who wins gets bragging rights for the rest of their life.
Dawson Award
This is the highest honor 52 Plus Joker awards. This is awarded to club members who have made monumental contributions to benefit 52 Plus Joker.
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
No. You are not required to attend the closing night banquet. Though, you will miss the Diamond Awards ceremony, a highlight of our convention. Plus, everyone else will be there in attendance. You should buy tickets to the banquet.
Yes. Registration is inexpensive as it is. We don’t have a daily rate. Regardless how long you come, the convention registration price does not change.
Previous
YeARS
- 2024 – Niagara Falls, New York
- 2023 – Cleveland, Ohio
- 2022 – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- 2021 – Niagara Falls, New York (Cancelled) [Virtual Convention]
- 2020 – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania (Postponed due to Covid-19) [Virtual Convention]
- 2019 – Charlotte, North Carolina
- 2018 – Cleveland, Ohio (Merger with Chicago Playing Card Collectors)
- 2017 – Erlanger, Kentucky
- 2016 – Chicago, Illinois
- 2015 – Orlando, Florida
- 2014 – Charleston, South Carolina
- 2013 – Las Vegas, Nevada
- 2012 – Erlanger, Kentucky (Joint with Chicago Playing Card Collectors)
- 2011 – Denver, Colorado
- 2010 – New Orleans, Louisiana
- 2009 – Toronto, Canada (Joint with International Playing Card Society)
- 2008 – Las Vegas, Nevada
- 2007 – Westborough, Massachusetts
- 2006 – Montreal, Canada
- 2005 – San Francisco, California
- 2004 – Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- 2003 – Wilmington, Delaware (Joint with Chicago Playing Card Collectors)
- 2002 – Atlanta, Georgia
- 2001 – Albuquerque, New Mexico
- 2000 – New Haven, Connecticut (Joint with International Playing Card Society)
- 1999 – Cincinnati, OH
- 1998 – Toronto, Canada
- 1997 – Kansas City, Kansas
- 1996 – Las Vegas, Nevada
- 1995 – Cincinnati, OH (Joint with Chicago Playing Card Collectors)
- 1994 – Arlington, Virginia
- 1993 – Kissimmee, Florida
- 1992 – Las Vegas, Nevada
- 1991 – Cincinnati, OH (Joint with Chicago Playing Card Collectors)
- 1990 – New Haven, Connecticut
- 1989 – Indianapolis, Indiana (Joint with Chicago Playing Card Collectors)
- 1988 – Chicago, Illinois (Joint with Chicago Playing Card Collectors)
- 1987 – Cincinnati, OH (Joint with Chicago Playing Card Collector)
Convention Thoughts
