Here's some exciting news for sports fans, especially if you love immersive experiences.
Fanatics, known for its online casino and sportsbook, has teamed up with OBB, a cutting-edge entertainment studio, to expand their long-term partnership. Why is this important? Together, they'll keep hosting the famous Fanatics Fest, the ultimate festival for sports fans.
They'll also be building off the phenomenal success the event saw last year.
The announcement comes just weeks after Fanatics announced that it would provide special fan experiences with one NFL team, and the launch of sports betting in Missouri this week.
What is Fanatics Fest?
Fanatics Fest has quickly become the top spot for sports fans all over the world since it started two years ago. It gives fans a deep dive into the sports and collecting world. Whether you're into exclusive collectibles, autograph sessions, live events, or trading card shows, there's something for every type of fan.
At the festival, you can meet your sports heroes, get their autographs, and take photos with them. The event also offers interactive experiences from top sports leagues and brands, and features live talks with celebrities and athletes on stage.
More than 125,000 fans showed up at the Javits Center in New York City for the 2025 Fanatics Fest. Because of the event's huge success, organizers are adding an extra day to the festival in 2026, so fans will have even more time to enjoy all it has to offer.
One of the big highlights of last year's festival was the Fanatics Games. Over three days, athletes, celebrities, and a few lucky fans competed in a decathlon-style event with eight different challenges to test various athletic skills.
These challenges included throwing a football, shooting basketballs, hitting golf shots, and pitching a baseball at a target. Former NFL superstar Tom Brady emerged victorious, much to the delight of fans cheering for his win.
How Will Fanatics and OBB Work Together?
OBB and Fanatics will co-produce the event alongside the Fanatics Events team.
OBB also serves as the official content partner, having produced Fanatics Fest: All Access, an ESPN special that gave fans an inside look at the festival.
Fanatics CEO Michael Rubin praised OBB for their innovative contributions, noting that the collaboration brings unmatched energy and experiences to the event.
“OBB has brought an incredible energy to Fanatics Fest since we started in 2024, and having them work hand-in-hand with our team has taken the content and production surrounding the event to the next level”, Rubin said. “Their team and ours share a passion for relentlessly enhancing the fan experience, and I can’t wait to see what we can dream up together over the next decade as we continue to make Fanatics Fest the absolute can’t-miss sports, collecting, and entertainment event”.
Fanatics Fest Is Only Part of the Agreement with OBB
Through this partnership, OBB’s branded content studio, Bolded, has worked with Fanatics’ advertising division to secure exciting brand sponsorships and integrations from big names like DICK'S Sporting Goods, Starbucks, and Raising Cane’s. These collaborations promise even more engaging experiences for festival-goers.
Michael D. Ratner, Founder & CEO of OBB, expressed his enthusiasm for the continued partnership. He described Fanatics Fest as a unique event that celebrates sports, content, culture, and community.
With shared visions of taking Fanatics Fest to even greater heights, both teams are committed to building on the solid foundation they've created.
As we look ahead to Fanatics Fest 2026, taking place from July 16–19, fans can expect even more excitement and unforgettable experiences at the Javits Center.
It’s an opportunity no sports enthusiast will want to miss.
