Hottest Holiday Toys for 2026 Revealed by Experts and Parents

As the holiday season approaches, parents and gift-givers can begin their search for the most sought-after toys of 2026. Experts and parents have identified a diverse range of products, from classic brands to emerging trends, catering to various interests and age groups. Ali Mierzejewski, Editor-in-Chief of The Toy Insider, emphasized the continued popularity of heritage brands like Fisher-Price, Crayola, LEGO, Play-Doh, and Barbie, while also noting the rise of squishy toys from brands such as NeeDoh and Squishmallows.

Pop culture is also a significant influence on toy selections this year, with merchandise tied to popular franchises like "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" and "Toy Story 5" expected to be in high demand. The curated list includes toys designed to foster imaginative play, creativity, and skill development.

Interactive and Plush Toys

The Sesame Street Tickle Me Elmo Giggle Max, an 18-inch interactive plush toy, is highlighted as a top pick due to Elmo's universal appeal and the toy's ability to induce laughter. Mierzejewski noted its nostalgic appeal, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of the original Tickle Me Elmo.

For younger children, the Fisher-Price Little People My Mario Adventure Playset offers interactive elements with sounds and moving parts, encouraging imaginative play and storytelling. This playset is also seen as a way for adults to share their love for Nintendo with the next generation.

Interactive pets are also a strong category, with the Just Play furReal Gabby the Grow & Roar Interactive Plush Tiger offering nurturing play. Mierzejewski pointed out that such toys help children develop social-emotional skills through interaction.

Educational and Creative Play

Toys that encourage building and creativity are prominent. The Melissa & Doug Cheery Lane Modular Play House & Figures is a wooden playset praised for its modular design, allowing children to rearrange and customize their play space. Mierzejewski highlighted its play value and trusted brand name.

The Chompshop ChompSaw Cardboard Cutter, a kid-friendly power tool, is designed to develop STEM skills through crafting with cardboard. The brand also offers a subscription service for ongoing projects.

Character-Driven and Themed Toys

Fans of specific franchises will find numerous options. The American Girl Daisy Davenport doll, the Girl of the Year for 2027, celebrates individuality and is accompanied by a book. For Barbie enthusiasts, the "Barbie in The Nutcracker" 25th Anniversary Doll, inspired by the upcoming animated special, is a festive choice.

Disney is represented by the Disney Darlings Winnie the Pooh Birthday Celebration Feature Baby Doll, which encourages nurturing play with interactive lights and sounds. The popular "Bluey" animated series inspires a Lights and Sounds 36-Piece House Playset, noted for its size and suitability for multiple children to play together, fostering collaboration.

Action figures like the Nintendo Yum Yum Yoshi 9.5-Inch Feature Action Figure offer screen-free play and encourage storytelling. Similarly, the PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie Megasaurus Dino Vehicle with Inflatable Toy combines vehicle play with the excitement of a large inflatable dinosaur, appealing to fans of the franchise and dinosaur enthusiasts alike.

Gaming and Sensory Play

The Nex Playground console connects to a TV and uses motion tracking to create interactive gaming experiences, encouraging physical activity. Its library includes popular characters from various franchises.

For children who enjoy sensory play, the GUI GUI Mega Slime Haul offers multiple scented slimes with various add-ins, promoting creativity and tactile engagement. The Schylling NeeDoh Squishmas Advent Calendar is recommended for its collectible, squeezable sensory toys.

Collectibles and Music-Themed Gifts

The Pokémon TCG: 30th Celebration Elite Trainer Box caters to Pokémon fans, encouraging collecting, trading, and strategic gameplay. Mierzejewski emphasized the benefits of card games for developing social and strategic skills.

For musical inclination, the FAO Schwarz Bluetooth Karaoke Toy Set provides a light-up display and voice effects for family entertainment.

Surprise and Discovery Toys

The Primal Hatch Megalodon Hatching Shark Egg Interactive Toy offers a surprise reveal as the shark hatches from its habitat, with the added benefit of continued imaginative play after the initial unboxing. This toy is noted for its re-reveal potential.

These selections aim to provide a wide array of options for holiday shopping, blending popular trends with educational and developmental benefits for children.