Where are the good militaria show in the US?

[Andy B.]

Hello Gents,
I was just curious if anyone can let me know where the good militaria shows are here in the U.S.? Or a web page that lists upcoming shows (or events). I'm here in north FL, and we're devoid of any good shows (or gunshows for that matter). I do travel to the Chicago-land area a couple times a year, but I can't seem to find info on shows up there.
I also would like recommendations on a good book for grading badges and medals (German that is), that might also help with identifing fakes. Any and all comments are really appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Andy (collecting German WW2 mini badge stickpins)

[BobM]

Chicago militaria

Chicagoland/ Hillside Militaria Show (Mar21, Jun6, Aug15, Oct17, Dec5, 2004). At the Holiday Inn 4400 Frontage Road, Hillside IL 60162 from 8am to 1pm. Show contact is Bill Trovato (708)499-9917. Frankly, it's been several years since I went to their show, but if you're in the neighborhood, it may be worthwhile. BobM

[BobM]

Gun shows/ Chicagoland

Years ago, we used to have a very good monthly gunshow at the Lake County Fairgrounds, but politics ended that. Dupage and Kane County have had shows regularly, but they haven't been impressive to me. As of the late, a show called the Lakemoor Gun Show, has been steadily improving (located between Lake County and McHenry County- 1 1/4 hr NW of Chicago). Lakemoor banquet facilty 28874 Route 120, Lakemoor IL 60050. 8am-2pm Mar 21,Apr18,Sept19, Oct17,Nov14,Dec19. BobM

[Skipper Greenwade]

Hi Bob,

If you're willing to do a little traveling, you should attend the MAX Show and the Ohio Valley Military Society's Show-of-Shows. Most collectors regard these as their two "can't miss" events each year.

There is considerable debate over which show is actually better...my favorite is the MAX, but there are no doubt others who will come down solidly on the side of the Show-of-Shows. Guess it really boils down to what you're looking for in a show.

The MAX Show will be in Charlotte, North Carolina, October 1st - 3rd, with set-up day on Thursday. September 30. This will be the first year for the Charlotte location. The show will be celebrating its 2oth anniversary and has previously been held in St. Louis, Baltimore and Pittsburgh.

The next Show-of-Shows (unfortunately, you just missed S-O-S 2004!) will be held February 24th - 27th, 2005 in Louisville, Kentucky. This will be the 13th presentation of the S-O-S and it, too, is consistently one of the best shows in the country, if not the world!

Both of these shows have evolved into events with activities - planned and otherwise - that give attendees somethinnto do after the doors to the hall are clled and locked. Both advertise 1500 tables of militaria and feature exhibit areas for collectors wishing to put up displays. In addition, the MAX Show features a Friday night Seminar Program and a Saturday night Live Auction. There are in-room parties - including one put on by Craig Gottlieb that just about everyone tries to attend, if only for a few minutes. Group get togethers for dinner outings and general "show and tell" are a regular part of show weekends as well. The Internet Froums are generally well represented with a table where members can meet to share stories and look over each others' latest finds.

The OVMS also holds two other, smaller shows, in May and November, in the Cincinnati area that are certainly worth attending. The Great Western has been moved to Dallas and will be held in May as well.

I'll let the others here fill in the details on which local shows are worth your time.

Best,
Skip

[Bill Grist]

US shows

BOB, I agree with Skipper the best shows are the SOS and The MAX.. The next MAX show is in Charlotte, N.C. October 1st -3rd. 2004 at the Merchandise Mart 2500 East Independence BLV.......We also have the NC GUN COLLECTOR and MILITARIA show there 3 times a year..500 table show..The next NCGCA show is July 31-August 1, 2004 Hope this Helps some.. wfg

[SS-Forester]

hi,

we're having a show coming on 27th March in Toronto. everyone is kindly welcome

[BobM]

shows

Although I wasn't the original Poster for this topic; just want to say thanks for the info to everyone. Bob

[Andy B.]

Many thanks!!

Howdy Guys,
Thanks for posting the info. I will take it in, and hopefully be able to make the show in NC. I will also try and adjust my schedule to make some Chicago shows. As usual here, all the info is great and really appreciated!!
Andy

[Steve B]

Shows

A low key show is held the first Sunday every three months (next is May) at Ft. Belvoir just South on Rt. 95 of Washington, DC. If you can tolerate some entry delay because of security in entering a U.S. Army base, the admission is free. Tables are $12.00/per and there are plenty of customers. A nice group with mostly U.S. Army militaria. There were about 7 dealers the last show who dealt in German medals, helmets and other items.
Steve