FIRST Take will air a special episode that will, of course, involve both Molly Qerim and Stephen A. Smith.
ESPN’s hit debate program will go on the road, but not too far from its usual South Street Seaport location in Lower Manhattan, New York City.

First Take host Molly Qerim posing on the set of the debate program[/caption]
On Friday, First Take will be in attendance at a huge sports interactive festival.
The show will be broadcast live at the 2nd edition of Fanatics Fest at the Javits Center in Hell’s Kitchen in NYC.
First Take will be live from the event at 10:00 am ET to noon and will feature hosts Qerim and Stephen A.
NBA legends Tracy McGrady and Chris Webber will also be guests on the show.
It’s expected that other guests will make an appearance on the special show.
First Take will also have a live audience.
Fans are pumped up to see Smith and Qerim at the highly anticipated three-day Fanatics event.
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The show was also broadcast in last year’s inaugural Fanatics Fest that saw more than 70,000 fans in three days.
This year’s Fanatics Fest will be similar as it will feature panels, podcasts, and autographs with celebrities and star athletes.
Fanatics Fest was a success last year, and ESPN took notice.
The network will air a behind-the-scenes program of Fanatics Fest, held this Friday through Sunday, on July 7 at 9:00 pm ET.
“Fanatics Fest is where sports, fandom, and culture collide—and that’s exactly the kind of space where ESPN storytelling thrives,” said Brian Lockhart, SVP of Original Content, ESPN.

First Take was live at the innaugural Fanatics Fest last August[/caption]
“From surprise performances to one-of-a-kind athlete moments, this event captures the full spectrum of what it means to be a fan today.
“With Fanatics Fest: All Access, we’re excited to bring that energy to audiences everywhere, offering an inside look at an unforgettable weekend that pushes the boundaries of live sports experiences.”
One of the biggest draws for Fanatics Fest 2025 will be the Museum of Greatness, a memorabilia display that will feature more than $200 million in collectibles.
And on Saturday, LeBron James is set to host his podcast, The Shop, as a live panel.