Pen shows are a little different from most other hobby shows. They have grown from small one day get togethers by local pen collectors into weekend orgies of frenzied pen buying, selling, trading, and general BSing. There are still a few of the one day pen get togethers but the bigger ones have developed into an interesting hybrid half way between the get together and a full weekend show. The main show is on Sunday and dealers and collectors set up at tables and sell their spares and or merchandize. The show begins to dissipate fairly early as people leave to get home Sunday evening. The interesting part is that pen shows usually starts on Thursday or Friday with informal trading in various hospitality rooms around the hotel. The appearance and activity looks almost like the Sunday show except it moves around more and anyone that wants to set up can. I have always had my best luck on these earlier days. For this reason and the auction it is best to be there Saturday at least.

Saturday is currently the selected day for the Pen Show Auction. This is a must see event even if you do not buy anything. You have the opportunity to actually see what pens sell for. These shows rarely have professional auctioneers so the pace is usually a little uneven but the action grows on you. Most of the shows try to have a few really select items in the auction that you rarely get to see anywhere else. If you are going to bid on any items be sure to fully examine them during the preview times. These auctions are normally low keyed friendly affairs with no intent to cover up problems but if you buy it it is yours.

Pen shows are overwhelming for those that have never been to one and the sheer size can cause disorientation to both the new and old collector as well. There are more pens and pen related material in one place that you are likely to see in years of pen collecting. Even a small show will have thousands of pens available. Take your time and take it one step at a time. If you are a new collector try to get with someone that has been to some shows to help you around. Before the show make up your mind on three or four things that you want to look for and stick with it. If I am at the show look me up I will be happy to help you out.

When collectors go to shows they tend to go directly to the show and stay until it is time to go home. I picked nice photos of the individual cities for icons so you can see what they look like. If you go to the shows you probably will not get another chance to see them while you are there.