Play Fair Returns to Javits Center with New Toys and Interactive Fun

10/24/17 - By Jody Mercier

The holidays are coming up fast, and your kids are eager to get to work on their wish lists (of course). But before anyone decides which gifts make the final cut, consider a trip to Play Fair, where the whole family can get hands on with the gotta-have-'em toys and new-to-the-market goodies that'll make this season one for the books!

Play Fair, which returns to the Javits Center on November 4 and 5 after its fun-filled debut last year, offers toy lovers of all ages an action-packed day filled with memorable performances by kid-approved favorites, special movie screenings, character appearances (including Chase and Marshall of Paw Patrol fame), tons of interactive games, and most importantly a chance to play with and buy the toys of tomorrow today. And as if that wasn't reason enough to snag tickets for your family, we have a special discount for Mommy Poppins readers.

Sponsored by Toys 'R' Us and Spin Master, Play Fair has actually doubled in size since its 2016 inaugural event. Last year's much loved giant Lego ramp, which sent Lego cars racing onto the convention center floor, will return to the show, along with a number of new interactive hits. This year, you'll be able to challenge your family to a battle in the action-filled Nerf Arena and immerse yourself in virtual reality with the Cartoon Network's Ben10 and Minecraft games. Meanwhile the ALEX® SPA will keep fairgoers looking their glammed-up best with hair chalk, nail stickers, and temporary tattoos.

There will be rows upon rows of exhibitors selling their toys, from big-name brands to mom-and-pop independents, and most will offer attendees some interactive fun. In 2016, my family delighted in watching a giant game of Pie Face go down, struck poses in a life-sized Cabbage Patch Kids box, got our faces painted, and spent a ton of time creating in the Crayola booth. Play Fair also introduced my kids to the DC Super Hero Girls, who have become a playtime staple around my house!

Beyond the many ways to play, kids' favorite characters will make appearances both on the main stage and in meet-and-greet and photo ops throughout the venue. You'll have a chance to get up close with the Paw Patrol gang, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Hatchimals, Shopkins, Shimmer & Shine, SpongeBob Squarepants, Grossery Gangs, Peppa Pig, Rusty Rivets, and more. Sports fans can delight in meeting professional players from New York teams, including the Knicks and Rangers, too.

Even better than the photo ops, though, is the chance to learn new skills at the activity stage, where the Rockettes will share some of their dance moves, Jedi Trainers will whip your Star Wars fans into shape, and Magformer builders will craft seriously creative constructions. Children's book authors will also make appearances here.

The main stage drew big time stars in 2016, and this year's edition is no different. A Shopkins fashion show will strut down the runway; drone demonstrations will whiz through the air, and WWE superstars will show off their moves and muscles. If you need a little downtime from the playtime, the main stage is also where you'll find exclusive premieres and screenings, plus plenty of seats to take a break. Greg T from the Elvis Duran Morning Show hosts and keeps the action moving.

Racing on the Lego Race Ramp

A few words to the wise: Like at any convention at the Javits Center, expect to encounter crowds. If you can manage, leaving the stroller at home makes it easier to navigate. Pack plenty of snacks, too, or plan to grab a bite to eat nearby. Though there were food vendors on site in 2016, the lines were long, and the prices can be a bit steep. Also, plan to arrive before your session begins to avoid the crowds, and allow for plenty of check-in time. Make a beeline for the biggest attractions and character meet and greets, which will get busier as the day goes on.

Play Fair is held Saturday, November 4 and Sunday, November 5, with two sessions daily, and tickets are on sale now. General admission grants you entry to a morning (10am-2pm) or afternoon (3pm-7pm) session and start at $25, and family 4- or 6-packs are sold at a discount. All attendees over the age of 3 must have a ticket. Mommy Poppins readers can use the code MOMMYPOPPINS17 to get a $5 discount on their purchase!

All photos courtesy of Play Fair

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