Chicago Toy and Game Fair, Chicago

When toy and game inventor Mary Couzin attended Essen Fair in Germany in 2001, she was moved to see families playing together and the excitement European crowds greeted toy and game designers. Two years later, she'd founded the Chicago Toy & Game Fair. Chicago is Toy & Game Inventing Capital of the World, where many beloved playthings such as Beanie Babies, Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots and TMX Elmo were created. Couzin continues to throw this annual two-day extravaganza. Along with international guests, inventors of classics such as Bop It, Operation, Twister, Nerf and Jenga make appearances. Attendees can enjoy giant toys and games, interactive exhibits, STEM activities, tournaments, costumed characters, National Rummikub Tournament, and more.