#United States #Chicago #Toy Association #People of Play #POP Week

People of Play™ Announces POP Week 2026 Dates

People of Play™ (POP), a division of The Toy Association™, has officially announced that POP Week will make its much-anticipated return to Chicago from November 5 to 8, 2026. The event promises to be an inspiring gathering for the global play community, bringing together inventors, designers, manufacturers, retailers, and fans from all around the world.

A Celebration of Play

POP Week is known for its diverse platform that fosters connection and collaboration within the toy and game industry. Serving as a hub of creativity, the event will include several hallmark activities designed to engage participants of all ages. Building on the success of POP Week 2025, which garnered an impressive 1.9 billion media impressions, this year's event plans to highlight the power of play and its impact on childhood development.

Signature Events

The upcoming POP Week 2026 will feature a lineup of exciting events, including:

• - Inventor Pitch Innovation Conference (November 5-7 at Embassy Suites): The longest-running premier event for inventors to connect, pitch their ideas, and learn from industry leaders.
• - TAGIE Awards (November 6 at Joe's Live): A celebration recognizing outstanding achievements in innovation within the creator and design community.
• - Chicago Toy & Game (CHITAG) Fair (November 7-8 at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center): North America’s largest public toy and game fair will host a plethora of experiential events, interactive exhibits, and activities for everyone.
• - Young Inventor Challenge (November 7 at Donald E. Stephens Convention Center): A unique opportunity for kids aged 6-18 to present their original inventions to major companies and media, fostering creativity from a young age.

Building Excitement

As the event draws nearer, excitement is buzzing throughout the consumer landscape. High-profile media coverage is anticipated, including national broadcasts, digital coverage, and trade publications, all eager to tell stories centered on the joy of play and the creativity behind it.

Mary Couzin, senior vice president and founder of People of Play at The Toy Association, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We are thrilled to officially share the dates for POP Week 2026 and welcome the play community back to Chicago.” She emphasized that each year builds on the previous one, and 2026 will continue their commitment to promoting creativity and innovation on a global stage.

Greg Ahearn, president and CEO of The Toy Association, mentioned the importance of connection, stating, “POP Week is all about connection—between inventors, companies, and families. We look forward to seeing the industry and the public come together again in 2026 for another remarkable celebration of play!”

Looking Ahead

Further details, including registration information and updates on programming, will be available in the coming months. To stay informed, enthusiasts can visit the official website at chitag.com.

About People of Play™

People of Play (POP) is a leader in promoting innovation and connectivity within the global toy and game industry. They provide resources, events, and networking opportunities for professionals and aspiring inventors alike. The Toy Association™, established in 1916, represents all businesses involved in the creation and delivery of toys and youth entertainment products, emphasizing the developmental benefits of play. The association plays a crucial role in championing toy safety initiatives and fostering collaboration within the toy industry worldwide.

Through events like the Chicago Toy & Game Fair, TAGIE Awards, and more, People of Play continually seeks to uplift the creativity and ingenuity that fuel the joy of play for all generations.

In conclusion, mark your calendars for what promises to be an unforgettable POP Week 2026 experience, celebrating the transformative power of play and innovation in the vibrant city of Chicago.