NEW YORK, Feb. 10, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- An estimated 33,000 toy industry insiders from 100 countries gathered in anticipation at New York City's Jacob K. Javits Convention Center this morning, where the 110^th annual American International Toy Fair (Feb. 10-13) opened its doors for four, fun-filled days of business-building, networking, trend-spotting, and more.

(Photo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20130210/NY57617 )

Owned and operated by the Toy Industry Association (TIA), Toy Fair (Feb. 10-13) is expected to draw nearly 20,000 retailers, wholesalers, importers, buying groups and trade guests to scope out 150,000 innovative toys, games and youth entertainment products across a record-breaking 375,000 net square feet of exhibit space.

More than 1,000 companies – 239 of which are exhibiting at Toy Fair for the very first time – will reveal their hottest toys and product lines – including tried-and-true classic and nostalgic playthings; DIY design, construction toys, arts and creative activities; extreme and outdoor sporting equipment; licensed figures and accessories; virtual / augmented reality games; and more. The Toy Fair playground is divided into 13 specific product zones to keep the experience focused and efficient.

"The American International Toy Fair is the world's one-and-only gateway to all of the creativity, innovation and talent originating in the North American marketplace," said Carter Keithley, TIA President. "From big-name toy companies and top-selling retailers, to exciting new start-ups and specialty stores, Toy Fair provides our foreign and domestic guests with exclusive access to every aspect of this great industry."

The show kicked off this morning with a live performance from the star of the hit Broadway musical, Annie; following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, nearly 14,000 registered buyers from 7,650 unique retail outlets swarmed Toy Fair's aisles in search of the next big thing.

In addition to business-building, trend-spotting and licensing opportunities, Toy Fair is offering its diverse audience with unparalleled educational seminars, networking events and special activities. For information about TIA's Content Connection, the Digital Kids Conference & Digital Kids Safety Summit, TIA's Annual Toy Safety and Compliance Update, Independent Thinking and Creative Factor seminars, and more, be sure to visit the Education section of ToyFairNY.com or consult the on-site signage at the Javits Center for details.

TIA trend experts have already scoured the show floor and discovered some major toy trends for 2013:

• So Retro!
  Nostalgic, classic and vintage playthings that bring families together in reminiscent fun.
• Pop Culture Persuasion
  DIY toys inspired by the success of reality TV shows that celebrate the talent and skills of contestants.
• 360 Degree Play
  Tech toys that integrate real and virtual worlds or allow players to 'change' the physical world as they play.
• Enticing Teens and Tweens
  Licensed accessories and traditional board games tap into a desire to engage with something other than a computer or TV screen. 
• 24/7 Play
  Toys that are compact, portable and multi-functioning appeal to busy families and value-conscious parents.
• Construction Craze
  Building are hotter than ever, with many manufacturers diversifying their lines, launching innovations in building and introducing new licenses.

More information about the top trends of the year will be released as the week progresses.

Registration is mandatory for access to Toy Fair 2013; verification of media credentials is required. Sign up online at www.ToyFairNY.com or on-site during show hours.  Those who can't make it to the show can follow Toy Fair on Twitter (#TF13 and #TFNY) and visit the Toy Fair Online Press Room, TIA's Facebook page and PlayHappens.org for show information.

About the American International Toy Fair  (www.ToyFairNY.com)

Toy Fair is an annual event that is owned and operated by the Toy Industry Association (TIA). The largest toy trade show in the Western Hemisphere, the show brings together more than 1,000 exhibiting manufacturers, distributors, importers and sales agents to showcase an estimated 150,000 toy and entertainment products to 7,000+ unique retail outlets from 100 countries.

About the Toy Industry Association (TIA)  (www.ToyAssociation.org)

TIA is the not-for-profit trade association representing all businesses involved in creating and bringing toys and youth entertainment products to kids of all ages, representing more than 600 companies who account for approximately 85% of domestic toy sales. Toy safety is the number one priority for the toy industry. TIA has a long history of leadership in toy safety and works with government, consumers and industry on ongoing programs to ensure safe and fun play.

SOURCE Toy Industry Association