Beyond the Cabinet of Curiosities: How Oddities Expos Are Tapping Into a Growing Market

By Stephanie Kelly

The Victorian era’s cabinets of curiosities – private collections of unusual objects – are experiencing a 21st-century revival. But instead of dusty displays in aristocratic homes, these collections are now taking center stage at traveling expos, drawing thousands of attendees eager to embrace the macabre, the antique, and the wonderfully weird. The Oddities and Curiosities Expo, announcing a 40-city North American tour for 2026, is at the forefront of this growing trend, and is proving that there's a significant – and increasingly mainstream – market for the unconventional.

Founded in 2019 by Michelle and Tony Cozzaglio in Tulsa, Oklahoma, the expo has rapidly expanded from a local event to a coast-to-coast phenomenon. Featuring over 200 vendors specializing in taxidermy, preserved specimens, original horror art, antique medical instruments, and metaphysical accoutrements, the expo offers a unique shopping experience. But it's more than just a marketplace; it’s a community hub, offering hands-on workshops like taxidermy and insect pinning, tarot readings, and sideshow performances.

“We started this because we felt there wasn't a dedicated space for this type of art and collecting,” explains Michelle Cozzaglio. “It was a really niche interest, and we wanted to create a welcoming environment where people could share their passion.” The response has been overwhelming, demonstrating a surprising appetite for the unusual.

A Growing Market for the Macabre

Industry data confirms the expo’s success isn’t an anomaly. While quantifying the “oddities market” is challenging, research indicates a steady growth in collectibles, antique markets, and niche art. Google Trends data shows a significant rise in searches for terms like “taxidermy” and “oddities market” over the past five years. This isn't just about acquiring objects; it's a cultural shift.

“There's a growing fascination with the darker side of history and a desire for authenticity in a world of mass production,” says a collector who frequents the expo. “These objects tell stories, they have character, and they connect us to the past.”

This trend is fueled by several factors, including the popularity of gothic aesthetics, dark tourism, and a broader societal acceptance of alternative subcultures. The rise of social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram has also played a role, providing a platform for showcasing unique collections and connecting with like-minded individuals.

Beyond Shopping: Community and Ethical Concerns

The Oddities and Curiosities Expo distinguishes itself not only through its diverse offerings but also through its focus on community building. The expo fosters a welcoming atmosphere, attracting attendees from all walks of life and offering a safe space for self-expression.

“It’s not just about buying things; it’s about connecting with people who share your interests,” says one attendee. “It’s a really supportive and inclusive community.”

However, the growing popularity of the oddities market also raises ethical concerns. The sourcing of taxidermy and preserved specimens is a particular point of contention. Critics argue that the practice can contribute to the illegal wildlife trade and raise concerns about animal welfare.

The Oddities and Curiosities Expo acknowledges these concerns and emphasizes its commitment to ethical sourcing. “We require all of our vendors to adhere to strict ethical guidelines,” explains Michelle Cozzaglio. “All animals and specimens must be sourced legally and ethically, and we prioritize vendors who use ethically sourced materials.”

The expo’s workshop provider, The Sleeping Sirens, further reinforces this commitment, emphasizing responsible preservation practices and sourcing only from animals that have died of natural causes or were legally hunted. This commitment to ethical sourcing is becoming increasingly important to consumers, who are demanding greater transparency and accountability in the collectibles market.

A Small Business Story

The Oddities and Curiosities Expo’s success story is also a testament to the power of small business innovation. Michelle and Tony Cozzaglio saw a gap in the market and created a unique event that caters to a growing niche audience.

“We started this as a passion project,” explains Tony Cozzaglio. “We never imagined it would grow into what it is today.”

The expo’s expansion to 40 cities in 2026 is a testament to their vision and hard work. It’s also a reminder that small businesses can play a significant role in driving economic growth and fostering cultural innovation.

Looking Ahead

The Oddities and Curiosities Expo is poised to capitalize on the growing demand for unique and unconventional experiences. By prioritizing community building, ethical sourcing, and small business innovation, the expo is shaping the future of the oddities market. While the Victorian cabinets of curiosities were once private collections, the 21st-century revival is bringing these fascinating objects – and the communities surrounding them – into the spotlight. The expo's 2026 tour isn’t just a series of events; it's a demonstration that there's a thriving market for the strange, the beautiful, and the wonderfully weird.