Stamp collectors from across Ontario and beyond will gather in London this weekend for CANPEX 2026, a two-day national-level philatelic exhibition and stamp marketplace featuring competitive exhibits, dealers and opportunities to connect with fellow collectors.
Hosted by the Middlesex Stamp Club, CANPEX takes place Oct. 17-18 at the Hellenic Community Centre, 133 Southdale Rd. W., in London. The show runs Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission and parking are free, and a lunch counter will be available.
First held in 2016, CANPEX stands for Canadian National Philatelic Exhibition. Hosted by the Middlesex Stamp Club, CANPEX is organized by volunteers from stamp clubs and philatelic organizations throughout southern Ontario and has become one of Canada’s annual national-level exhibitions.
The exhibition is sanctioned by the Royal Philatelic Society of Canada and forms part of the American Philatelic Society’s World Series of Philately, placing CANPEX among the country’s important competitive exhibiting events.
Each year, CANPEX recognizes an aspect of local history through its exhibition theme. For 2026, organizers have selected “London’s Heritage Buildings – Past and Present,” drawing attention to the city’s architectural history and the buildings that have helped shape the community.
Another feature this year is the introduction of “Freestyle Philately,” a new initiative highlighted by organizers on the CANPEX website. Further information about the format is available online.
Alongside the exhibits, collectors will have an opportunity to browse material offered by 20 dealers occupying 29 tables.
Canadian Stamp News and CoinStampSupplies.com of Welland will be among the exhibitors, giving visitors an opportunity to meet representatives of the publication and browse collecting supplies.
The remaining dealers are Dave Burwell, Armstrong’s Stamps, Attic Books, Frank Hoyles, Jason Broersma, Greg Simon, Perforations Plus, Brian Cutler, John Beddows, Durbano Stamps, Roy’s Stamps, William Coates Philatelist, Longley Auctions, Lee Stamp Sales, Vance Auctions Ltd., King’s Collectibles, Andy Palochik, Gary Coates and R. Maresch & Son Auctions.
The marketplace provides collectors with an opportunity to examine material in person, speak directly with dealers and pursue items for their collections.
Competitive exhibiting remains central to CANPEX, with collectors presenting material for evaluation under national-level exhibition standards.
One of the weekend’s highlights will be the awards reception, where exhibitors, judges and visitors can gather following the judging of the exhibits. The reception also provides an opportunity to recognize exhibitors’ achievements and renew friendships within the philatelic community.
The event coincides with Stamp Collecting Month, adding another opportunity to promote the hobby and encourage collectors to become involved in organized philately.
With free admission, free parking, competitive exhibits and a sizeable dealer marketplace, CANPEX offers something for both experienced philatelists and those just beginning to explore stamp collecting.
Full details, including information on Freestyle Philately, the awards reception, accommodations, directions and show contacts, are available at www.canpex.ca.