The Boston 2026 World Stamp Show, scheduled for May 23-30, 2026, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, has announced a unique contest for stamp collectors worldwide, known as the Boston Connection Contest¹.

This contest invites philatelists to explore and find stamps that relate to Boston in any way. Participants are encouraged to look beyond U.S. stamp issues, considering the global perspective on Boston’s influence and presence on stamps.

To participate, collectors need to compile a list of stamps and souvenir sheets that feature Boston-related themes, including the year of issue, country of origin, major catalog reference, and a description of the Boston connection. The contest, open between November 1 and December 31, requires entries to be submitted through an official form available on the Boston 2026 website.

There are three categories of winners: two will be selected randomly, and one will be chosen for finding the highest number of stamps and souvenir sheets with a Boston connection, up to a maximum of 100. In case of a tie, the earliest entry will be declared the winner. Winners will receive a prize package of Boston 2026 mementos and souvenirs, and they will be notified via email in early January.

This contest is part of a series of events and activities leading up to the Boston 2026 World Expo, which coincides with the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution. The Expo aims to bring together stamp enthusiasts and philatelists from around the world, celebrating the rich history and cultural heritage of Boston through the lens of philately.

Boston Connection Contest Details

1. Objective: Collectors are to find stamps and souvenir sheets that are related to Boston in any manner. This includes not just U.S. stamps but also international issues that depict Boston’s people, places, events, and other significant aspects.
2. Entry Guidelines:
   • Submission: Participants must submit their entries using an official form on the Boston 2026 website.
   • Time Frame: The contest is open from November 1 to December 31.
   • Entry Requirements: Each entry should list the stamps/souvenir sheets with details like year of issue, country, catalog reference, and a description of the Boston connection.
   • Limit: Only one entry per person is allowed.
3. Selection of Winners:
   • Categories: There are three winners. Two are selected randomly, and one is chosen based on the highest number of Boston-related stamps and souvenir sheets found, with a cap of 100.
   • Tiebreaker: In case of a tie, the earliest entry wins.
   • Prizes: Winners will receive Boston 2026 mementos and souvenirs.
4. Notification: Winners will be notified by email in early January.

Boston 2026 World Stamp Show

• Date and Venue: The show is scheduled for May 23-30, 2026, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center.
• Significance: It coincides with the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution, adding historical significance to the event.
• Activities: The show will feature a variety of activities, including exhibitions, meetings, and a large opening ceremony.
• Accessibility: Conveniently located near Logan Airport and Amtrak’s South Station, the venue is easily accessible for international and local visitors.

Broader Impact

• Philatelic Education: This event is an opportunity for enthusiasts to delve into the rich tapestry of Boston’s history as depicted in philately.
• Cultural Significance: By focusing on Boston’s influence globally, the contest and the expo highlight the city’s historical and cultural importance.
• Community Engagement: The event and contest foster a sense of community among philatelists, encouraging collaboration and shared learning.

The Boston 2026 World Stamp Show and the Boston Connection Contest represent a unique fusion of cultural appreciation and philatelic passion. They offer an exciting platform for stamp collectors to explore and celebrate Boston’s impact on the world stage, while also providing an educational and communal experience for participants and visitors alike.

For more information and to participate in the contest, please visit Boston 2026 World Stamp Show’s official website.

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1. Boston Connection Contest ↩︎