The American International Toy Fair is one of a few major toy industry trade shows that are held around the world. It is held annually in late winter in New York City's toy district on Broadway and 5th Avenue and at the Jacob Javits Convention Center, and is open to the toy trade only. This event is hosted and staged by the Toy Industry Association (TIA).

The show is said to be one of the largest toy trade shows in the western hemisphere. More than 1,500 manufacturers, distributors, importers and sales agents from 30 countries exhibit their toy and entertainment products in over 300,000 square feet of exhibit space.

The American International Toy Fair is the place for manufacturers to expand their reach beyond traditional retail channels. The Toy Fair attracts more than 13,000 buyers representing 7,000 unique retail outlets. There is no better place to expand your opportunities in this $22 billion market. Each year the Toy draws excited crowds of top global retailers such as Costco, Amazon.com, Kohl's, Macy's, Toys "R" Us, Wal-Mart and Target. In addition there are more than 20,000 registered attendees.

This event is a lot of fun for manufactures as well as buyers. If you attend this event you are likely to run into celebrities like Whoopi Goldberg or Donnie Osmond. Also, be on the lookout for characters like Cabbage Patch Kids and Mr. Potato Head. While this might sound like a lot of fun for kids, no one under 18 is admitted into the Jacob Javits center exhibit halls.

The Toy Industry Association Inc (TIA) is a not-for-profit trade association for producers and importers of toys and entertainment products for youth that are sold in North America. The TIA represents over 500 companies who account for approximately 85% of domestic toy sales. Associate members also include licensors, designers inventors, safety consultants, testing laboratories, communications professionals and the media. Their long history of leadership in toy safety includes the development of the first comprehensive toy safety standard. They continue to work with the government officials, consumer groups and industry leaders on programs to ensure safety in toys.

The TIA for the past eight years has also hosted the Toy of The Year (or TOTY) Awards. The TOTY Awards salute the creativity and success of the toy industry by honoring the best toys developed by the international toy industry for North American consumers. TIA takes the time to honor companies, individuals and products that make this industry so great.