Spielwarenmesse eG commits to International Day of Play

Date: 11 June 2025

Venue: Nuremberg, Range of activities in city centre

The UN has proclaimed 11 June as the International Day of Play. Nuremberg, too, will be celebrating the event with activities at various locations in the city centre – and Spielwarenmesse eG will be involved. The trade fair and marketing services provider will be organising various opportunities for those of all ages to join in the play. Along with its partners in the action group (the German Toy Industry Association, the Fair Toys Organisation, the House of Games, the Toy Museum and Ultra Comix), the company will use a wide range of activities to emphasise the importance of play and its positive effects on children and adults.

Five play locations in Nuremberg

From 11 am to 5 pm on the Wednesday after Whitsun, Nuremberg city centre will be transformed into a colourful world of experience for children, families and anyone who enjoys play. Five central locations will offer a richly varied programme, inviting all to join in and discover. At the activities from Spielwarenmesse eG, between the City Hall and St. Sebald, guests can expect a mix of action, crafts and construction games, as well as brainteasers in the exit tent. Through its LiteraTouren app, the City Library of Nuremberg is inviting visitors to track down a mystery toy. In the Fünferplatz, the German Toy Industry Association (DVSI) will have tractors and toy vehicles for all sorts of fun outdoors. At the Egidienplatz, the Klimamobil will be spreading information in a fun way about the environment, in a joint campaign with the House of Games. And in the Pellerhof, the toy shop Ultra Comix rounds off the activities with a wide range of outdoor games. At the same time, the House of Games is celebrating the 40^th anniversary of the German Games Archive. The Toy Museum will be holding a photo event focusing on all the favourite toys that are brought along, and the Fair Toys Organisation will also have a ‘wheel of fortune’ here with some great prizes to be won.

Importance of play

The International Day of Play draws attention to the importance of play worldwide and invites everyone to take an active part in play. “Playing enriches your whole life,” emphasises Christian Ulrich, Board Spokesperson at Spielwarenmesse eG. His remarks are deliberately aimed at adults as well, “because if you play all your life you are helping to stay mentally fit and agile.” The fact that the importance of play is now recognised and promoted worldwide by 140 states in the UN is down to the support of international partners including Right To Play, the International Play Association, Save the Children, Lego, Mattel, Hasbro and many other ambassadors.

Save the Date: Spielwarenmesse 2026 – 75th Anniversary Edition
January 27–31 | Nuremberg, Germany

Don’t miss the world’s leading trade fair for toys, returning in 2026 for its 75th edition! From January 27 to 31, Nuremberg will once again become the meeting place for the global toy industry – a milestone year full of unforgettable experiences, new trends, and unique networking opportunities.

Be part of this historic celebration of innovation, creativity, and exchange.

The GNZCC has been supporting New Zealanders at leading international trade fairs for 35 years. Whether you’re looking to access new markets, find distribution partners, discover new products, or organize a trade delegation – we’re here to help!