Collectors heading to ORAPEX this weekend in Ottawa, Ont., can expect a full slate of presentations, study group meetings and social events alongside the show’s dealer bourse and exhibits.
The show opens Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Nepean Sportsplex, with programming beginning shortly after. Highlights include a Greene Foundation presentation by Garfield Portch on the expertization of Canadian and British North America material using advanced imaging technology, as well as multiple British North America Philatelic Society study group sessions throughout the day.
Afternoon sessions on Saturday feature a range of topics, from Pence-Cents era postal rates and colour chart research to a visual look at Ottawa’s past through early 20th-century postcards, presented by Doug Lingard and Geoff Browning. André Dufresne will also discuss the latest edition of the Field Guide to the Cinderella Stamps of Canada. A guided exhibit tour led by award-winning exhibitor and judge Yan Turmine will focus on youth entries and offer insight into competitive exhibiting.
The dealer and exhibition floor closes at 6 p.m. on Saturday.
Saturday concludes with a reception and awards dinner at the East India Company Restaurant. See organizers for ticket availability.
Sunday’s program begins at 10 a.m. with additional study group sessions and presentations, including Marc Castel’s talk on the famed CLP6 airmail cover and its connection to a tragic 1927 flight. ORAPEX 2026 honouree Brian Wolfenden will present on early airmail routes connected to Ottawa prior to the Second World War.
A judges’ feedback session will give exhibitors an opportunity to gain insight into their entries, followed by presentations on topical collecting and international exhibiting, including connections to Boston 2026. The weekend also includes annual meetings for several societies and a chance for attendees to meet exhibitors at their frames on Sunday afternoon.
The show closes Sunday at 4 p.m., wrapping up a weekend that blends education, research and community engagement for collectors of all levels.
For full details, visit the show’s Events page.