National Toy Hall of Fame Announces 2026 Inductees

The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, has revealed the 2026 class of inductees to its National Toy Hall of Fame. Four iconic playthings earned a place this year: bingo, Care Bears, The Pokémon Trading Card Game, and the slide.

Founded in 1998, the National Toy Hall of Fame honors toys and games that have made a lasting impact on childhood, creativity, and popular culture. A committee of historians, educators, and industry professionals reviews a slate of finalists each year and selects new inductees based on cultural significance and enduring popularity. Twelve finalists were considered for 2026, with those not chosen remaining eligible for future induction. This year’s finalists included Bop It!, Mahjong, Monster High dolls, Mouse Trap, Polly Pocket, Sorry!, Tickle Me Elmo, and Yahtzee.

Chief Curator Michelle Parnett-Dwyer says the 2026 selections represent play experiences that span centuries. “The four inductees this year have all inspired play across generations. Bingo’s early history dates to lottery games played more than 500 years ago, and the modern slide has been a part of childhood for more than a century. Even the newer arrivals, Care Bears and Pokémon Trading Card Game, have connected generations. Today’s parents and guardians share these favorites with their kids.”

This year’s honorees join a long list of beloved toys already enshrined in the Hall of Fame, including Play-Doh, Clue, Easy-Bake Oven, American Girl Dolls, and Battleship.

Selection is guided by four major criteria: icon status, longevity, discovery, and innovation. Together, these standards help identify toys that have shaped how generations play, imagine, and learn.

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