MESA, Ariz. — James Badman has always loved animals. As a child, he had a pet tortoise and even became a tortoise breeder. From 2017 to 2022, he established an exotic animal pet store. It's safe to say Badman is an animal lover.
He's now the associate director for the department of animal care and technologies at Arizona State University.
When he wasn't working, Badman would often travel to reptile expos across the country and he said he always wondered why a large metropolitan area like Phoenix didn't have its own expo for all things reptiles.
So he decided to make one.
Now in its 15th year, the Phoenix Reptile Expo is coming to Mesa Nov. 18-19. Founded by Badman and his friend and fellow reptile enthusiast Drew Rheinhardt, the Phoenix Reptile Expo is the largest reptile show in Arizona and will feature more than 50 vendors throughout the two-day event.
“If you have any curiosity about reptiles or industry, it's a great show to attend,” Badman said.
Want to know more about the expo? Here’s what you need to know:
Where is the Phoenix Reptile Expo?
The Phoenix Reptile Expo is actually not in Phoenix, but in Mesa. The expo will be at the Mesa Convention Center at 263 N. Center St. in Mesa.
When is the Phoenix Reptile Expo?
The Phoenix Reptile Expo will take place on Saturday, Nov. 18 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 19 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
How to get tickets
Tickets can only be purchased at the door and it is cash only. Tickets cost $12 for adults, $5 for children and children under 5-years-old are free with adult admission.
Where to find parking
Parking for the expo is free and at the same parking lot as the Marriott.
Information on the pet policy
No pets are allowed at the expo, according to the Facebook page.
Any other questions:
To find out more about the Phoenix Reptile Expo, head to the Facebook page for the event.
Watch 12News+ for free
You can now watch 12News content anytime, anywhere thanks to the 12News+ app!
The free 12News+ app from 12News lets users stream live events — including daily newscasts like "Today in AZ" and "12 News" and our daily lifestyle program, "Arizona Midday"—on Roku and Amazon Fire TV.
12News+ showcases live video throughout the day for breaking news, local news, weather and even an occasional moment of Zen showcasing breathtaking sights from across Arizona.
Users can also watch on-demand videos of top stories, local politics, I-Team investigations, Arizona-specific features and vintage videos from the 12News archives.
Roku: Add the channel from the Roku store or by searching for "12 News KPNX."
Amazon Fire TV: Search for "12 News KPNX" to find the free 12News+ app to add to your account, or have the 12News+ app delivered directly to your Amazon Fire TV through Amazon.com or the Amazon app.
Up to Speed
Catch up on the latest news and stories on the 12News YouTube channel. Subscribe today.