2026
52 Plus Joker
Playing Card Convention
Spend four unforgettable days surrounded by legendary collectors, award-winning designers, historians, and manufacturers who live and breathe playing cards. Celebrate the art, history, and future of cards alongside people who love it as much as you do.
Held At Sheraton Niagara Falls
Oct. 21st – Oct. 25th, 2026
$50 Registration Fee
The Perfect Location
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 2026 Events
Although our schedule is still in the works, we anticipate the grand reveal of the 2026 club deck and more at the New Deck Launch reception. Brace yourself for engaging speakers (TBA), lively trading sessions, fast-paced auctions, and a closing buffet banquet featuring the 10th Annual Diamond Awards ceremony! The 2026 convention is gearing up to be our most thrilling playing card event of the year.
*Please note our 2026 line-up may change due to unforeseen circumstances. Check this website regularly for updates.
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 $130 + 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.
Our 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 2026? 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
Yes. You must be a current member of 52 Plus Joker to attend this event. If you’re not a member, join now. You may also join in person at the convention.
No. If your spouse or significant other wants to attend the events with you, they may come at no charge. However, if you want them to attend the banquet with you, you’ll need to purchase a banquet ticket for them.
Yes. When you register for the convention, please make a note that you’d like a table. Space is limited so you are only offered a single table. If you require something bigger, please contact us to speak about it.
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
We’ve Held Our Convention In:
- 2026 – Niagara Falls, New York
- 2025 – Charlotte, North Carolina
- 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
