Which of These Belong In the National Toy Hall of Fame?

Some serious childhood nostalgia is competing for a big honor this year, and the list may have you picking sides.

The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester has revealed the 12 finalists for the 2026 National Toy Hall of Fame. They are Bingo, Bop It, Care Bears, Mahjong, Monster High dolls, Mouse Trap, the Pokémon Trading Card Game, Polly Pocket, the slide, Sorry, Tickle Me Elmo, and Yahtzee.

That is quite a mix. You have games that brought families together, toys we carried everywhere, and Sorry, which led to a few family arguments on game night in my house.

One Nominee Scared My Son

Then there is Tickle Me Elmo. He may have been one of the hottest toys of the 1990s, but he definitely did not win over everyone. My son was terrified of Tickle Me Elmo. There was no specific reason. He just did not like him. Apparently, a laughing red monster who shakes uncontrollably is not adorable to every child.

Fans can vote for their favorites now through September 23rd at toyhalloffame.org. The three toys receiving the most public votes will be included on a ballot alongside selections made by the museum’s advisory committee.

What's the Criteria?

To make the Hall of Fame, a toy must be recognizable, remain popular across generations, encourage creativity or discovery, or change the way people play.

The winners will be announced in early November. Until then, prepare to defend your childhood favorite and explain why Sorry deserves it more than a slide.