The Play Date Will Unveil New Toys & Hottest Trends Tomorrow

March 7, 2023 | All the anticipation building up for the first toy media event of the year is almost over. The Play Date, the ultimate showcase for new-for-2023 toys and games, is taking place tomorrow, March 8. Presented by The Toy Association and Adventure Media & Events, the event is happening in the heart of New York City at the brand new etc.venues 360 Madison Avenue.

The event will kick off with The Toy Association’s “2023 Toy Trends Briefing” led by Steve Pasierb, president & CEO of The Toy Association, who will provide media and other guests with business insights on the state of the toy industry. Then, the Association’s trends team will unveil its highly anticipated list of the top 2023 trends in toys and play, complete with product examples from exhibitors’ booths.

Influential toy companies of all sizes are exhibiting at The Play Date, including Spin Master, Moose Toys, LEGO, Just Play, Jazwares, WowWee, Battat, Melissa & Doug, Crazy Aaron’s, Funko Games, Crayola, Playmobil, and more. Each company booth will feature hands-on demonstrations of their latest products, including new spring launches and never-before-seen items that haven't hit store shelves yet. Exhibitors will preview these items in front of an exclusive audience of strictly vetted, top-tier media, creating buzz before their products hit retail.

Taking place on International Women’s Day, The Play Date will also feature a dedicated Women-Owned Business area and a breakfast sponsored by Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment (WIT) will shine a spotlight on the vital impact of female entrepreneurs in the industry.

“The excitement is palpable as the toy community eagerly awaits The Play Date, where exhibitors will come together to celebrate all things play and showcase their latest product launches to the media,” said Kimberly Carcone, executive vice president of global market events at The Toy Association. “We can’t wait for attendees to experience the excitement of being at the forefront of the industry's latest trends and innovations.”