The Toy Foundation Announces Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards will be Held Virtually on Feb. 18

January 14, 2022 | The Toy Foundation has announced that the 2022 Toy of the Year Awards ceremony and Hall of Fame induction ceremony will now be held virtually on Friday, February 18 at 4 p.m. (Eastern) and will be open to the public; a link to register for the event is available on the TOTY website.

“While we were all looking forward to gathering in person at the TOTYs, we know that the virtual gala will still bring all the excitement, celebration, and anticipation that the awards program is famous for – right to the comfort of your own home,” said Pamela Mastrota, executive director of The Toy Foundation.

This news follows the recent announcement that Toy Fair New York has been canceled, due to the ongoing pandemic, international travel restrictions, and other factors that would have impacted the show.

The virtual TOTY event will unveil each of the 16 category winners, as well as the overall Toy of the Year Award and People’s Choice winner. A special spotlight on The Toy Foundation’s philanthropic activities, as well as a celebration of the Toy Industry Hall of Fame inductees, will also take place.

The TOTY awards remain a critical fundraiser for The Toy Foundation, helping fund children's hospitals throughout the country, especially those serving disadvantaged communities, through "The Toy Foundation Play Grants Program"; providing grant relief to non-profits assisting families directly impacted by COVID-19; and supporting vital Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives that will impact all sectors of our industry.

Those who have purchased their TOTY tickets have the option to donate the cost as a direct gift enabling The Toy Foundation to deliver the joy of toys and play to more children in need throughout the coming year. Even a portion of the original ticket price will help. However, those who wish to request a refund can email the last four digits of the credit card used to purchase the tickets along with the name on the card, company name, date and amount of the transaction to Maryam Lie.