From ABC7 New York · · 1m 20s
Vote now for 2026 Toy Hall of Fame
Tickle Me Elmo, Pokémon cards, and Mahjong are among 12 finalists competing for immortality.
In brief
Tickle Me Elmo, Pokémon cards, and Mahjong are among 12 finalists competing for immortality. Public voting runs through September 23rd to help choose which three toys join the Hall of Fame's 90 enshrined classics. Originally reported by ABC7 New York.
Twelve toys compete for fame
The National Toy Hall of Fame announced its 2026 finalists on Wednesday, featuring Tickle Me Elmo, Pokémon Trading Card Game, Mahjong, Bingo, Yahtzee, Care Bears, and five others.
The full finalist lineup
Joining the nominees are Bop It!, Monster High dolls, Polly Pocket, Mouse Trap, Sorry!, and a playground slide.
Public voting is open now
Anyone can vote between September 16 and 23. A panel of judges will also weigh in before three winners are announced in November.
“It's debating season, and this year's finalists give everyone plenty to talk about”
What makes a toy iconic
Toys must be considered icons, have engaged multiple generations, sparked creativity, or changed play and toy design to qualify for the Hall.
Joining 90 enshrined classics
The three winners will join the National Toy Hall of Fame's existing collection, which includes Cabbage Patch Kids, Dungeons & Dragons, Hot Wheels, Frisbee, G.I. Joe, and Mr. Potato Head.
Some finalists are repeat nominees
Tickle Me Elmo, Pokémon Trading Card Game, and Mahjong have been nominated for years, finally making it to this year's finalist round.
The main idea
Public voting runs through September 23rd to help choose which three toys join the Hall of Fame's 90 enshrined classics.
