Sparks, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States: Fanatics Fest NYC

Company: Sparks
Company Description: Experiential everything. Any way you need it.
Nomination Category: Event Categories
Nomination Sub Category: Conferences & Meetings - Convention

Nomination Title: Fanatics Fest NYC

Which will you submit for this nomination, an essay of up to 525 words describing the event - its genesis, goals, development, and results - OR a video of up to five (5) minutes in length describing the same? CHOOSE ONE:
Written essay of up to 525 words
If you are submitting a video of up to five (5) minutes in length, provide the URL of the nominated video here, OR attach it to your entry via the "Add Attachments, Videos, or Links to This Entry" link above, through which you may also upload a copy of your video:
If you are providing a written essay of up to 525 words about your nominated event, place it in this space. Make sure that you address the genesis, goals, development, and results of the event, and mention that date(s) on which the event was produced:

Total 324 words used.

Fanatics Fest NYC at the Javits Center welcomed over 70,000 passionate fans and collectors, exceeding expectations and redefining sports fandom. This landmark event united fans from the NBA, NHL, UFC, NFL, WWE, MLB, and more, showcasing the unifying power of sports culture.

The Fanatics Events Team collaborated with Sparks and Freeman to create a bold, fan-centric experience, featuring shared spaces that fostered exploration and cultural connections across modern sports. Fanatics curated unforgettable moments with appearances from artists like Jay-Z, Travis Scott, and DJ Khaled, alongside sports legends such as Sabrina Ionescu, Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, and Kevin Durant. These moments blended entertainment and sports for a dynamic festival atmosphere.

The event translated the excitement of live sports into a fully immersive festival, engaging all five senses. Interactive activities like games, workshops, live podcasts, panels, photo ops, and autograph sessions encouraged fan participation and lasting memories. Fanatics Events, Sparks, Freeman, and BaAm collaborated to deliver high-quality experiences. Sparks led the design of key areas, including the theater, Memorabilia Museum, Kids Zone, and autograph/photo spaces, while Freeman executed these concepts. The Center Stage, inspired by a game room, hosted live entertainment, while Topps Hobby Hall became a hub for sports collectors. BaAm further energized the space with NFL and MLB experiences.

Attention to visual cohesion enhanced the immersive experience. Thoughtful lighting, geometric patterns, and Fanatics’ signature branding elements created captivating spaces that transported attendees while deepening their connection to sports culture. Shadow and light interplay added depth, while functional elements like dynamic floor graphics, motion lighting, LED edge lighting, and strategic signage ensured smooth navigation and maintained Fanatics' bold identity.

Immersive gamification, real-time leaderboards, and interactive elements heightened engagement, transforming the festival into a vibrant, competitive environment where fans could connect and celebrate their passions. Fanatics Fest NYC set a new standard for sports fandom, blending culture, entertainment, and sports in an unforgettable experience, with Sparks and Freeman helping elevate fan engagement to new heights.
Optionally, list the appropriate creative and production credits for the nominated event, such as the following: Advertising Agency/City: Client: Art Director: Cinematographer: Creative Director: Designer: Director: Illustrator/City: Music Producer/City: Photographer/City: Printer/City: Producer: Production Company/City: Programmer: Writer: Web Development Firm/City:

Attachments/Videos/Links:

Fanatics Fest NYC
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