A number of different vendors had booths featured at the show. | Source: ToyFest

ToyFest 2023 is in the books, and that means it’s time to take stock of events. 

2023 marked the beginning of a new stage for ToyFest, previously ToyFest West, as it transitioned into a fully national trade show following impressive attendance at previous events. The show took place from Feb. 27 to March 3 this year at World Market Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. With a new website, new range, and new social media branding, the trade show now covers the entire United States toy industry.

ToyFest 2023 featured vendors from 48 different U.S. states, as well as Bermuda, Brazil, Canada, Cayman Islands, Guam, Korea, Mexico, Micronesia, Panama, Philippines, South America, the United Kingdom, and Venezuela. Bill St. John, Chairman of the Board, says the overall mood was happy though there were a few “growing pains,” as to be expected with the new venture. The event had nearly double the number of manufacturers and retailers in attendance compared to previous years. 

“What a week! ToyFest 2023 was filled with buyers from all over the country. The show had great energy and excitement, allowing everyone to enjoy all ToyFest had to offer,” says Sandy Lepire, ToyFest President. “Resorts World was the perfect host hotel. Can’t wait for 2024, as we grow and continue to make ToyFest the best it can be for all.”

Attendance was high, with special events selling out or reaching max capacity. | Source: ToyFest

The show hosted a number of different special events. The Morning Masterpieces Kit Session started off ToyFest with buyers having breakfast and crafting at the tables, featuring brands such as Mindware, Ravensburger, Abacus Brands, and more. ToyFest also hosted a Game Night including a huge list of game sponsors and a raffle with prizes for lucky attendees. Both the Game night and Morning Masterpieces were sold out.

Best of ToyFest

Additionally, the following companies and products were honored for excellence at this year’s show.

  • Arts & Crafts: Bright Stripes
  • Building & Construction: Underdog Educational
  • Dolls / Action Figures: Squishable
  • Games & Puzzles: Goliath
  • Infant: Kids Hits International x Melissa & Doug (tie)
  • Novelty: Fun In Motion x Marmals (tie)
  • Outdoor: National Sporting Goods
  • Preschool: Fat Brain Toys
  • Science, STEM/STEAM: Abacus Brands

Related: ToyFest Reveals 2023 Hall of Fame Inductees

Organizers are now looking forward to ToyFest 2024, which will run from Feb. 26 to March 1. The show will once again be held at World Market Center in Las Vegas.

About the author

Bug Hartsock

Bug Hartsock

Bug is a News Writer for The Toy Insider, The Pop Insider, and The Toy Book. They are also a Master’s student in biology, currently studying sleep in arthropods. When they aren’t writing or working with small critters, they spend their time reading sci-fi novels, playing tabletop RPGs, or throwing creative projects at the wall. Bug had a mullet once, and is not against having one again. Reach out or find more from them at their website.

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