It's Toy Fair Time!

Wow, Toy Fair is finally here - I'm so excited! It's going to be a really busy few days in New York at the Javits Convention Center and at the various toy showrooms scattered all over the city.

The 105th American International Toy Fair 2008 is being held at New York City between February 17th to 20th at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. For many exhibitors, Toy Fair signifies months of preparation in order to showcase their brand new products - toys, games and much more. It's one of the biggest platforms where toys are concerned and many-a-time it can make or break a toy's future. Aside from the exhibitors at the Toy Fair, the buyers, the media, the distributors and other attendees from various walks of life come together in unision, sharing a common love - toys! Around 35,000 attendees are expected to grace this "$22 billion playdate", as it is being called by the Toy Industry Association or TIA, the owners and operators of this mega event.

So, what are the expected trends at this year's Toy Fair? I'm predicting lots of technology, lots of "virtual" toys and a huge emphasis on toy safety. Simpler and eco-friendly toys are gaining stronger ground too this year. Of course, there will be lots of companies with innovative ideas too. But, let's wait and watch the emerging trends at the American International Toy Fair 2008! Here's to an exciting year ahead!