Toy Hall of Fame 2026: Bingo, Tickle Me Elmo Among 12 Finalists

The National Toy Hall of Fame has named twelve finalists for its Class of 2026, setting up a contest that spans classic board games, plush icons and modern collectibles.

Among the contenders are the Tickle Me Elmo doll, the game of chance Bingo, the playground slide, Care Bears, Yahtzee, Mahjong and the Pokémon Trading Card Game. Also in the running are Bop It!, Monster High dolls, Polly Pocket, and the board games Mouse Trap and Sorry!

The Hall announced the shortlist on Wednesday and opened voting to the public and a panel of judges, who will decide which toys are honoured in November. Members of the public can cast their votes between September 16 and 23.

"It's debating season, and this year's finalists give everyone plenty to talk about — from classic games to plush icons and other toys that have shaped generations of play," said Michelle Parnett-Dwyer, senior curator at the museum, in a statement. "The debate is part of the fun because every toy sparks different memories and makes its own case for why it matters."

To be inducted, a toy must be considered an icon, have engaged multiple generations, fostered creativity, or profoundly changed play or toy design. Anyone may nominate a toy, but only those meeting these criteria make the final cut.

Three winners will join the 90 toys already enshrined in the Hall, a list that includes Cabbage Patch Kids, Dungeons & Dragons, Hot Wheels, Frisbee, G.I. Joe and Mr. Potato Head.

Several of this year's finalists have been in contention for years, including Tickle Me Elmo, the Pokémon Trading Card Game and Mahjong.