Collectors across Canada will once again be able to take part in Virtual Stampex when the online philatelic show returns March 6-8, 2026, offering three days of exhibits, dealer booths, educational programming and interactive events accessible from anywhere.
Organized by the Philatelic Traders’ Society (PTS), Virtual Stampex enters its seventh year and continues a format first launched in 2020 to connect collectors, dealers and societies in a fully digital environment. Registration for the event is now open, and participation is free.
The 2026 edition will run continuously for 72 hours, allowing collectors in different time zones to attend live sessions, browse dealer offerings and take part in discussions at their convenience. Following the live portion, the show will remain available on demand until April 6.
Virtual Stampex 2026 will feature an expanded range of interactive tools designed to replicate – and in some cases enhance – the traditional stamp show experience.
Collectors will be able to browse dealer booths operated by PTS members, where they can ask questions, submit want lists, make purchases directly, inquire about selling material and sign up for ongoing updates. A built-in catalogue system will allow visitors to shop directly within the platform.
Educational content will again be a central feature, with talks and panel discussions streamed from a virtual auditorium and accompanied by live question-and-answer sessions. Roundtable discussions will focus on current topics in philately, while the exhibition hall will showcase a wide range of displays, from award-winning collections to single-frame exhibits and non-traditional presentation formats.
The show will also provide opportunities for collectors to connect with philatelic societies and learn about membership benefits, research resources and educational initiatives. Attendees can download catalogues, guides, videos and other material into a personal “virtual briefcase” for later reference.
Interactive elements include games, quizzes and challenges designed to encourage exploration of the show floor and participation in events. Visitors earn points by engaging with booths and sessions, with results tracked on a leaderboard throughout the live period.
All features of Virtual Stampex are accessible on desktop computers, laptops, tablets and mobile devices. Live chat and video calling functions are built into the platform, allowing collectors to communicate directly with dealers and fellow attendees.
Simon Carson, chair of the Philatelic Traders’ Society, said the event reflects the organization’s ongoing effort to adapt to the changing needs of collectors.
“Stampex is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, and Virtual Stampex being in its seventh year is a strong example of how the PTS continues to innovate,” Carson said. “Together with our members, we are committed to supporting collectors of all levels and interests, wherever they are in the world.”
Following the live event from March 6-8, visitors will continue to have access to booths, exhibits and recorded presentations until April 6.