What makes a great show?

[Jewish-collector]

Some collectors want only dealers with vintage, some collectors want only shiny stuff, etc,... Just get as many dealers as you can to satisfy everyone's interests.

A good many Autograph guests from a variety of sports. But, have the area organized and maybe somewhat away from the dealer tables. But, minimize all the over abundant of announcements that so and so is only appearing for another hour and now accepting tickets 1 to 50, etc,...

A good food area with reasonable prices and plenty of tables/chairs.

Long show hours on at least one day (ie Fri 3 pm - 8 pm)

Reasonable admission fees.

Free and plenty of parking.

A table of flyers with upcoming shows, auctions, etc,...

[Snapolit1]

At least one day with extended hours. Yes, great idea. Def. good for those where work is not cooperating.

[bravos4evr]

A dealer section that features a cross section of vintage and modern and all price points to maximize the buyer's options. An autograph guest or two that isn't ridiculously expensive. (Darryl Strawberry just signed nearby for $30, but I saw at another place 60 miles away it was $60, something tells me the dealer overcharged the 2nd signing)

But mostly, what others have said, the logistics stuff (parking, food, crowd flow) are handled and well thought out.

Man, really it all comes down to having good dealers and good stuff at a good venue that is well planned.