National Toy Hall of Fame announces 12 finalists for Class of 2026

The National Toy Hall of Fame has announced its 12 finalists for the Class of 2026. The nominees include a diverse range of items such as Tickle Me Elmo, Bingo, the playground slide, Care Bears, Yahtzee, Mahjong, and the Pokémon Trading Card Game.

Other finalists are Bop It!, Monster High dolls, Polly Pocket, Mouse Trap, and Sorry!. Public voting will take place from September 16 to September 23, alongside a panel of judges who will select the three winners to be honored in November.

To be enshrined, toys must be considered icons that have engaged multiple generations, fostered creativity, or significantly influenced toy design. The winners will join 90 previously inducted toys, including Cabbage Patch Kids, Hot Wheels, and G. I. Joe.