When the Chicago Toy & Game Fair (CHITAG) returns on November 8–9, 2025, it won’t just be another trade show—it will be a celebration of creativity, play, and innovation set against the backdrop of one of America’s most dynamic cities. For families, inventors, toy enthusiasts, and industry insiders, the fair offers something truly unique: a chance to connect directly with the joy of play. And for those visiting from out of town, it’s the perfect excuse to fall in love with Chicago itself.
Why Chicago Makes It Even Better
As someone who calls Chicago home, I can’t help but say that the fair’s location is part of what makes it so special. Chicago isn’t just a backdrop—it adds its own character to the experience.
Rosemont offers easy access to O’Hare International Airport and is just a short train ride into the heart of the city. That means after a day at the fair, you can just as easily be standing beneath Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) in Millennium Park, exploring the Field Museum, or watching the skyline glitter from the shores of Lake Michigan.
And of course, no trip here is complete without food. Chicago’s deep-dish pizza gets all the headlines, but visitors quickly discover the richness of its food scene—from cozy neighborhood diners to world-class restaurants. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite between fair sessions or turning your trip into a full weekend getaway, Chicago’s culinary offerings make it unforgettable.
What really sets the city apart, though, is its energy. Chicago is a place where history and innovation intersect, where Midwestern warmth meets big-city excitement. That same spirit of creativity and connection infuses CHITAG, making it feel more like a celebration than a convention.
A Playground for All Ages
Held at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, CHITAG is where the toy and game industry meets its biggest fans. The fair draws global brands, up-and-coming inventors, media personalities, and influencers, all with one goal: to share the magic of toys and games with kids of all ages.
This year introduces Wishlist Weekend®, a brand-new feature that allows kids to create digital wishlists of their favorite finds through peopleofplay.com. It’s an interactive way for families to capture the excitement of discovery while giving brands invaluable feedback heading into the holiday season.
CHITAG also celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Young Inventor Challenge®, where kids ages 6–18 get to pitch their original toy and game ideas to industry experts. It’s not just an even, it’s a launching pad for future creators and entrepreneurs, many of whom have gone on to see their ideas turned into real products on store shelves.
And then there’s the fun factor. From live stage performances to the Duncan Yo-Yo Championship, character meet-and-greets, and hands-on play zones, CHITAG is designed to delight at every turn. Exhibitors don’t just showcase products, they sell them on-site, making it a prime chance for families to find holiday gifts that are both new and unique.
More Than a Fair—An Experience
Last year’s Chicago Toy & Game Fair drew massive attention, generating over 1.5 billion media impressions from outlets like Newsweek, The Today Show, Chicago Tribune, and Forbes. That visibility speaks to the impact CHITAG has not only on the industry but also on families who attend.
This year, whether you’re coming to shop for one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, cheer on a young inventor, or simply rediscover the joy of play, the fair promises to be bigger and better than ever. And pairing it with the cultural richness of Chicago makes it more than just an event—it becomes a memory.
Mark Your Calendar
The Chicago Toy & Game Fair 2025 takes place November 8–9 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. Whether you’re a lifelong Chicagoan or visiting for the first time, CHITAG is your chance to experience the magic of play in the perfect setting: a city that knows how to welcome people, spark imagination, and celebrate community.
So come for the toys, come for the games—but stay for Chicago.
