The International Toy Research Association (ITRA) invites proposals for the 10th ITRA World Conference to be held in Augsburg Germany 5-7 August, 2026.  The overarching conference theme is The Zeitgeist in Toys & Games.

Proposal Submission Deadline:  31 December, 2025

Throughout recorded history, toys and games have shaped and reflected who we are. They inspire our play and fuel our development, both as individuals and members of society.   As both carriers and changemakers of culture, toys represent and influence the collective spirit of their times – the Zeitgeist. 

This interdisciplinary conference provides toy researchers, archivists, curators, professionals, practitioners, and designers opportunities to exchange, reflect on, and discuss the zeitgeist in toys and games. The scientific committee welcomes abstracts of completed research, case studies, design studies, educational and development projects, including those in process or development, as well as ideas for future research in order to generate discussion and feedback.  Submissions related to the main conference theme are invited, as well as from a broad range of topics on toys, games, and play.  

Please see our conference website for the full CfP and submission guidelines at:  https://itratoyresearch.org/2026conference .  Submissions are collected through our online portal at: https://app.oxfordabstracts.com/stages/36478/submitter

Founded in 1993, ITRA is the longest standing professional research association dedicated to the transdisciplinary scientific study of toys, games, and other types of playthings. For conference questions and additional information please contact Volker Mehringer, 2026 ITRA Conference Chair at volker.mehringer@phil.uni-augsburg.de.  

For information about ITRA contact Greta Pennell, ITRA President at gpennell@uindy.edu