June 12, 2026 | Unlike any other toy industry event, the Chicago Toy & Game Fair (CHITAG) brings kids, parents, inventors, and the media together during peak holiday season excitement to discover the toys and games that families will be clamoring for during the holiday rush.
Presented by People of Play™, a division of The Toy Association™, and taking place November 7 to 8 in Rosemont, Illinois, CHITAG’s “Wishlist Weekend™” is a unique opportunity for exhibitors to showcase their hottest holiday products, spark buzz, and connect directly with their end-consumer. Plus, companies that secure booth space by the June 17 priority consideration deadline will be eligible for enhanced opportunities.
Here’s why you’ll want to be on the show floor this November:
- Engage with Consumers During Wishlist Weekend
Exhibiting at CHITAG offers a rare opportunity to showcase and sell products directly to kids and families during the all-important holiday season. The timing couldn’t be better: “Wishlist Weekend" arrives just as Halloween costumes are packed away and holiday wishlists start taking shape. By exhibiting, you’ll see firsthand how children, parents, and grandparents respond to your products while building buzz that carries straight into the holiday rush.
- Visibility with Media & Influencers
CHITAG attracts press, influencers, and content creators looking for the season’s biggest hits. Last year’s event generated more than 1.98 billion media impressions across major outlets, and past coverage has included The Wall Street Journal, Associated Press, MSN, Yahoo News, Fox & Friends, broadcast affiliates in Chicago and other markets, parenting magazines, global toy trade media, and more. By exhibiting, your brand and products have the chance to be featured in holiday gift guides, TV segments, and social media posts, all in a setting full of energy and authentic play moments.
- Strengthen Your Holiday Marketing & Grow Your Brand
While families are discovering new favorites during Wishlist Weekend, your brand benefits from a focus group that lets you in on how kids and families connect with your toys. Exhibitors regularly test new messaging strategies; capture authentic photos, videos, and testimonials for use in marketing materials; and gather immediate feedback that informs future campaigns.
“There’s no substitute for seeing kids discover a toy they immediately add to their holiday wishlists. That moment of joy translates into brand loyalty, authentic word-of-mouth, and a stronger connection with families who will return to your products year after year,” said Mary Couzin, senior vice president and founder/leader of People of Play at The Toy Association. “Exhibiting at CHITAG puts your brand in the holiday spotlight, connecting you key audiences in one unforgettable weekend.”
To secure exhibit space and/or sponsorships, or for more information, reach out to Mary Couzin.
CHITAG is North America’s largest consumer toy and game event, taking place November 7 to 8 at the Rosemont Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. CHITAG is hosted by People of Play™, a division of The Toy Association™. Click here to learn more.