Not only will there be two World Series of Philately exhibitions at the combined show August 7-9, near Baltimore-Washington Airport, there will 
also be a Young Exhibitors Competition, a classification of two- to three-frame exhibits, an "Informal Class" of exhibits with minimal rules and a single-page display of "One of My Favorites."
The deadline for entering exhibits is June 30, 2026. The prospectus can be found on the BALPEX website at https://balpex.org/exhibits.html
"Favorites" is described as single pages of a single item or set, "a place to single out a gem from your collection. This is just for fun, although there will be a people’s choice award. There is no charge to enter.
The Informal Class is described as an opportunity "where new exhibitors can show material and receive suggestions and encouragement in an 
informal setting." It is intended for everything from future WSP exhibits to material that doesn't fit the current system to displays by those who have "philosophical differences" with the established exhibiting rules. The fee is one-third that of the regular exhibiting classes, $6 per frame.
The Baltimore Philatelic Society first began holding the stamp collecting shows that became BALPEX in the 1930s. This year's show is at the BWI Marriott Hotel in Linthicum Heights, MD, at the airport, just a few miles south of Baltimore. A special show rate for hotel rooms is available and there is a free shuttle from the airport terminal to the Marriott.
Americover, the convention, exhibition and celebration of the American First Day Cover Society, is normally held in conjunction with Great American Stamp Show. However, with no GASS scheduled this year because of Boston 2026, the AFDCS looked for alternatives.
