Welcome to the National Toy Hall of Fame!
Last year, the National Toy Hall of Fame inducted baseball cards, Cabbage Patch Kids, Fisher-Price Corn Popper, and Nerf foam toys. However, this year, the Hall of Fame is considering adding a new member to its prestigious list – balloons!
These versatile and universally loved toys are among the 12 finalists being considered for induction this year. Other first-time contenders include the trampoline and the party game Apples to Apples.
A panel of expert judges and the public will have the opportunity to vote on which toys will be inducted in November. The list of nominees this year is diverse, ranging from bestselling gamebooks to Hess Toy Trucks that have been a holiday staple since 1964.
Other nominees include remote-controlled vehicles, stick horses, and popular games like Phase 10 and Sequence. My Little Pony figures and Transformers action figures, both from the 1980s, are also on the list of nominees this year.
Fans can participate in the voting process from September 18 to 25 at toyhalloffame.org. The three toys with the most public votes will make up a “Player’s Choice” ballot, which will be combined with votes from historians and experts.
Since 1998, the National Toy Hall of Fame has honored over 80 toys for their role in inspiring creative play across generations. From simple playthings like sticks and paper airplanes to iconic toys like the Barbie doll and Dungeons & Dragons, the Hall of Fame celebrates the impact of these toys on pop culture.
Will balloons join the ranks of these legendary toys? Stay tuned to find out! Visit the National Toy Hall of Fame at The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York to learn more about these beloved toys and their contribution to playtime.
