As a press photographer, there are few events as vibrant, dynamic, and downright fun to cover as Toy Fair. And as a blogger, I can’t wait to pull back the curtain and show you all the magic I witnessed – and captured – at the Javits Center in New York City from March 1st to 4th!
Stepping into the Javits Center this past weekend felt like entering a portal to a world crafted purely from imagination. Picture it: nearly eight football fields filled to the brim with the latest toys, games, and youth entertainment products. From emerging startups making their grand debut at the “Launch Pad” to billion-dollar global brands, the energy was palpable. This wasn’t just a trade show; it was a sprawling playground where creativity met commerce, attracting thousands of global play professionals from nearly 100 countries.
Everywhere you looked, there was something new, innovative, or wonderfully nostalgic. I saw everything from skill-building STEM toys and personalized play experiences that truly reflected kids’ unique “vibes,” to hot new collectibles and products inspired by popular entertainment. It was a feast for the eyes and a testament to the boundless creativity within the toy industry. My camera shutter was working overtime trying to keep up with all the incredible displays and new products poised to hit shelves later this year.
The show officially kicked off on Saturday, March 1st, with an absolutely electrifying ribbon-cutting ceremony. Imagine a lively parade of fan-favorite costumed characters leading the charge – it was a true spectacle! The atmosphere was buzzing with anticipation, a real hub for media, inventors, buyers, and designers all eager to dive into the future of play.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Toy Fair is getting a sneak peek at the year’s hottest trends. The Toy Association’s team of trend specialists unveiled the must-have toy trends of 2025, supported by fresh data from U.S. parents. We’re talking everything from nostalgic toys with a modern twist to the exciting role of Artificial Intelligence in toy design. It was clear that innovation is at the heart of this industry, constantly evolving to meet and inspire young minds.
Beyond the dazzling exhibits, Toy Fair was also a massive hub for learning and connection. The Toy Fair University educational programming offered invaluable insights into everything from new marketing strategies and global market research to product safety and the business of inventing. I saw so many professionals engaging, learning, and expanding their networks. Events like the Young Professionals Network (YPN) cocktail party and the People of Play™ Pub Party really underscored the collaborative spirit of this industry.
It wasn’t just about business, though. The philanthropic heart of the toy industry truly shone through. The Toy Foundation™ hosted the Toy of the Year® (TOTY®) Awards the night before the show opened, honoring top toys while raising funds to deliver toys to children in need. And on the final day, exhibitors generously donated nearly $1.3 million worth of products through The Toy Foundation’s Toy Chest initiative, directly impacting 35,000 children and families. It’s inspiring to see an industry that brings so much joy also give back in such a profound way.
For me, as a photographer, Toy Fair was a dream come true. Every corner offered a new story, a fresh angle, and countless opportunities to capture the essence of play. From the intricate details of a new action figure to the excited faces of industry leaders discussing the next big hit, my camera was constantly discovering new ways to tell the story of this incredible event. There truly was something for everyone, and I tried to capture as much of that diversity as possible.
The 119th Toy Fair truly united the global play community, fostering business growth and celebrating the latest innovations. It was a powerhouse show filled with momentum, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone event for the global toy industry. I’m already looking forward to the 120th Toy Fair, returning to the Javits Center from February 14th to 17th, 2026. If you’re involved in the toy world, or just love toys as much as I do, this is definitely one for the calendar!
What was your favorite toy growing up? Or what new toy are you most excited to see hit the shelves? Let me know in the comments below!
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