While November might be known to some as Toy Safety Awareness Month, it’s also the time to celebrate Neighborhood Toy Store Month.
As an expanded version of Neighborhood Toy Store Day, the monthlong event serves as a reminder to shoppers to remember the neighborhood toy stores in their communities as they kick off the holiday shopping season. Spearheaded by the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA), the event is aligned with Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday. Participating retailers are offering shoppers discounts, special events, and hands-on experiences with kids’ toy throughout the month.
“Over a decade ago, ASTRA initiated Neighborhood Toy Store Day to champion neighborhood toy stores across the country,” says ASTRA President Sue Warfield. “The toy industry started with small retailers like these where customers could create special moments with their families and celebrate the joy of play. Today, shoppers can still find thoughtfully curated selections of high-quality toys and games in their neighborhood toy stores and we want to encourage communities to continue supporting their small local businesses.”
Across the country, local residents can join in the national event by finding a participating store in their community. To learn more about any discounts, family-friendly activities, or other events each store will be offering, contact local stores directly.
For more info about ASTRA and its efforts to support small local businesses, visit astratoy.org.
