2026 Philippines Hot Wheels Collectors Convention ignites with full-throttle automotive action

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VIA GRAPHIC PLUS | MANILA, Philippines (September 6, 2026) — The Philippines’ Hot Wheels collector community shifted into high gear yesterday as the 2026 Philippines Hot Wheels Collectors Convention officially opened at the Crystal Pavilion, Okada Manila, bringing together passionate collectors, automotive enthusiasts, families, and fans for an even bigger celebration of everything Hot Wheels.

Building on the success and learnings from previous conventions with Richprime Global Inc. and Metrics, this year’s gathering delivered a more immersive experience—blending the world of die-cast collecting with real automotive culture, interactive play, exclusive displays, and new brand experiences.

Where Die-Cast Meets Real Cars

One of the biggest attractions at this year’s convention was the impressive collection of full-size Hot Wheels-inspired vehicles, giving collectors the opportunity to see their favorite automotive designs brought to life beyond the 1:64 scale.

Among the highlights was the striking Nissan Skyline GT-R-inspired Hot Wheels 1:1 car display, featuring this year’s official Hot Wheels convention which are limited only to Malaysia, Australia, Philippines, China, Singapore and Indonesia serving as a centerpiece for photo opportunities. A lineup of customized and enthusiast-owned vehicles from Decal Republic also added an authentic automotive atmosphere to the convention floor.

The showcase reinforced Hot Wheels’ long-standing connection between miniature cars, car culture, racing, and the creativity of automotive enthusiasts.

First-to-Launch Experiences Take Center Stage

The 2026 convention also introduced exciting new experiences to the Philippine market, including the first-to-launch Mattel Brick Shop, combining the world of building and collecting with Hot Wheels’ iconic automotive designs.

The convention floor also featured a dedicated Hot Wheels Let’s Race interactive area, transforming the venue into a colorful racing playground. Guests could enjoy track-based activities, race their cars, explore themed displays, and immerse themselves in the world of Hot Wheels Let’s Race which is one of the top kids’ animation content in Netflix.

From large-scale installations to detailed product displays, the experience was designed to give both longtime collectors and younger fans something to discover.

7-Eleven Joins the Ride

Adding another milestone to this year’s convention was the participation of 7-Eleven Philippines, which joined as an official partner of the 2026 Philippines Hot Wheels Collectors Convention.

The partnership brought the Hot Wheels and 7-Eleven collaboration to life through a dedicated showcase featuring a life-size Hot Wheels-inspired vehicle, connecting the miniature cars that collectors know and love with a full-scale automotive experience.

Meeting the Designer Behind the Cars

Adding to the excitement was the opportunity for collectors to meet and interact with Brendon Vestuskey, Hot Wheels Lead designer, giving fans a closer look at the creative minds behind the cars they collect.

The designer signing and sketching session provided collectors with a memorable opportunity to have their items signed and receive personalized artwork—turning already treasured collectibles into even more meaningful keepsakes.

A Thriving Collector Marketplace

The collector spirit continued throughout the convention floor, where attendees explored tables filled with an extensive assortment of Hot Wheels cars, rare finds, sought-after releases, and collectibles.

The marketplace gave collectors an opportunity to buy, sell, trade, hunt for hard-to-find pieces, and connect with fellow enthusiasts, reinforcing the strong and growing collector community in the Philippines.

For many attendees, the thrill of the hunt was just as important as the convention’s major attractions.

More Than a Convention

The 2026 Philippines Hot Wheels Collectors Convention represents the continued growth of Hot Wheels culture in the country—evolving from a gathering centered on die-cast cars into a multi-dimensional celebration of cars, collecting, racing, creativity, and community.

With its combination of full-size automotive displays, immersive installations, interactive play experiences, exclusive collectibles, and brand partnerships, the 2026 edition demonstrates how Hot Wheels continues to bring generations of fans together.

The convention continues today, September 6, at Crystal Pavilion, Okada Manila, giving collectors and fans another opportunity to experience the displays, activities, and attractions prepared for this year’s celebration.

Started in 1927, the Philippines Graphic is the longest-running printed magazine of national circulation that provides relevant news and features and promotes Philippine literature.

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