STAMFORD, CT (WCBS 880) - PEZ-o-philes are flocking to Stamford  for the 13th annual Northeast PEZ Collectors Gathering.

WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau: Collecting Them Is A Huge Hobby

PEZ was originally fashioned as a mint to help smokers quit back in 1927.

Today, collecting the dispensers with various character heads atop them is a huge hobby.

Richard Balisky, organizer of the convention, says the passion appeals to all kinds.

“Doctors, lawyers, senior citizens, children. I mean, you know, it just runs the gamut,” Balisky told WCBS 880 Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau. “If they pick of a PEZ dispenser, it brings a smile to their face.”

For those just getting into the craze, he says the new Captain America could be a hot one “because it’s brand-new and you can buy it for $1.50.”

Also, hard to find collectables, like the 1970s Mr. Potato Head dispenser, bring in big bucks.

The event runs until 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 9 at Holiday Inn Stamford Downtown, 700 Main Street. Admission is $5.

For more details, click HERE.