About
The North American Reptile Breeders Conference (NARBC) is one of the most respected reptile trade show organizations in North America. Organized by Bob Ashley of ECO Publishing and Brian Potter of Chicago Reptile House, NARBC hosts six events per year across three major venues: the Tinley Park Convention Center in Illinois, Dallas Market Hall in Texas, and the Saint Charles Convention Center in Missouri. Founded in 2001 with a mission to elevate the reptile show experience, NARBC partners with world-class breeders as well as up-and-coming hobbyists to showcase captive-born reptiles. Attendees can walk vendor aisles, purchase animals, speak directly with breeders, and participate in auctions. The shows are open to both the general public and professional breeders. NARBC also features a dedicated USARK booth at every event, educating attendees on reptile legislation and advocacy. The organization treats its vendor relationships as true partnerships, ensuring a high-quality experience for both buyers and sellers. Whether you're looking to acquire a new exotic pet, network with top breeders, or simply appreciate the artistry behind captive reptile breeding, NARBC events provide an unmatched live marketplace experience. Tickets, vendor maps, schedules, hotel information, and auction details are all available on the official website.
Key Features
- Multi-City Shows: Events held six times a year across three cities: Tinley Park IL, Dallas TX, and St. Charles MO.
- World-Class Vendor Lineup: Hundreds of top reptile breeders from across the country showcase their best projects and captive-born animals.
- Live Reptile Auctions: Each show features auctions where attendees can bid on rare and premium reptiles.
- Vendor Registration Portal: Breeders can register as vendors, review rules, and access show maps and schedules online.
- USARK Advocacy Booth: Every show includes a USARK booth to educate attendees on reptile-related legislation and ownership rights.
Use Cases
- Reptile enthusiasts attending shows to purchase captive-born exotic reptiles directly from top breeders.
- Professional reptile breeders registering as vendors to showcase and sell their breeding projects.
- Hobbyists networking with the reptile breeding community and learning about new morphs and species.
- First-time reptile owners discovering animals and getting expert advice from experienced breeders in person.
- Reptile industry stakeholders connecting with USARK to stay informed on legislation affecting reptile ownership.
Pros
- Reputable & Long-Running: Founded in 2001, NARBC has a well-established track record and strong industry reputation.
- Direct Breeder Access: Attendees can speak face-to-face with world-class breeders and see animals in person before purchasing.
- Multiple Locations: Shows across three states make attendance accessible to hobbyists and breeders in different regions.
Cons
- In-Person Only: There is no online marketplace or virtual show option — attendance requires physical presence at the venue.
- Limited Schedule: With only six shows per year across three cities, opportunities to attend may be infrequent depending on location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are NARBC shows held?
NARBC holds shows at three venues: Tinley Park Convention Center in Illinois, Dallas Market Hall in Texas, and Saint Charles Convention Center in Missouri.
How often does NARBC host shows?
NARBC hosts six shows per year, with two events at each of its three locations.
Can I buy reptiles at an NARBC show?
Yes. The shows are open to the general public and feature hundreds of vendors selling captive-born reptiles, supplies, and related products.
How do I become a vendor at NARBC?
Vendor registration is available on the NARBC website. Each show has its own registration page with rules, pricing, and table/space information.
What is the USARK booth at NARBC?
The United States Association of Reptile Keepers (USARK) booth is present at every NARBC show to educate attendees about reptile ownership legislation and advocacy efforts.
