Argos reveals the 20 toys set to be top of kids’ Christmas lists in 2026

From nostalgic favourites to new interactive toys, Argos has revealed the 20 gifts it predicts children will want this Christmas.

Argos

Published: September 2, 2026 at 11:48 AM

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You might not be thinking about Christmas just yet, seeing as it's the start of September, but Argos has already offered parents a glimpse at what could be topping children’s wish lists this year.

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The retailer has unveiled its Top 20 Toys for Christmas 2026, with its toy experts predicting the gifts likely to prove most popular with children this festive season. The list spans imaginative play, crafting, interactive technology and some seriously nostalgic picks for parents who remember browsing the Argos catalogue themselves.

Argos says its experts have spent months researching the toy market before putting together this year’s selection.

Which toys are tipped to be the biggest hits this Christmas?

There’s a definite mix of old-school favourites and newer innovations in the 2026 line-up. Retro-inspired toys are expected to remain popular, offering a chance for parents to introduce their children to updated versions of the things they loved growing up.

The Mini Brands Really Works Vinyl Playset (£20) is one of the standout nostalgic picks. The miniature record player actually spins and comes with 44 mini records to collect, giving children a hands-on way to explore music-inspired play.

LEGO also gets a major look-in, with the £150 Donkey Kong Arcade Building Set bringing a classic gaming character into the world of bricks. Pokémon fans can meanwhile build their own starter characters with the LEGO Pokémon SMART Play: Sprigatito, Fuecoco and Quaxly Battle (£30).

Interactive toys are also having a moment

Technology features throughout the list, but the focus is on toys that encourage children to get involved rather than simply sit and watch.

This year’s Top Toys list brings together the very best in imaginative play and innovation.

Chantal Pearce, Head of Toy Buying at Argos

The Tonies Lite (£60) is among the picks, while the VTech Kidi 12-In-1 Guitar Superstar (£50) combines music and play with light-up frets, touch-sensitive strings and Bluetooth music streaming.

There are plenty of opportunities for imaginative role play, too. The Projector Karaoke Machine (£90) is designed for budding performers, while the Chad Valley Wooden Classic Kitchen (£30) and Jupiter Workshops Four Storey Wooden Doll House (£150) offer more traditional open-ended play.

Argos says hands-on crafting and small-world play are among the trends shaping its predictions this year, giving children the opportunity to create their own stories and adventures.

And yes, there are plenty of character toys

Big-screen and TV favourites continue to influence children’s Christmas wish lists, with several recognisable faces making the cut.

Toy Story 5 features in the line-up with a Bullseye Jumbo Plush (£50), while fans of KPop Demon Hunters can look out for the Golden Singing Dolls (£35).

Younger children are catered for with the Paw Patrol The Dino Movie Megasaurus Dino Vehicle (£60) and Peppa Pig Ready Pedal Peppa (£30). There’s also a Minions & Monsters Fart Blaster Pro (£30), which feels likely to appeal to children with a particular appreciation for toilet humour.

For children who prefer creatures of the prehistoric variety, the Primal Hatch Megalodon Hatching Egg Shark Toy (£55) allows them to hatch a mini prehistoric shark using a small amount of water. Little Live Pets My Magical Dragon Skye (£55) is another magical creature pick, responding with movement when it is petted, fed or played with.

The full Argos Top 20 Toys for Christmas 2026

What does Argos say about this year’s toy trends?

Chantal Pearce, Head of Toy Buying at Argos, said the list reflects a mixture of nostalgia, innovation and imaginative play.

“This year’s Top Toys list brings together the very best in imaginative play and innovation,” said Pearce. “We’re always monitoring market trends to discover what truly sparks children’s imaginations, and our 2026 Top Toys list reflects the toys we expect to capture their attention this Christmas.”

She added that the selection spans “movie magic and retro nostalgia” alongside “screen-free storytellers and hands-on crafting."

“Toys have been at the heart of Argos for over 50 years, helping families create magical Christmas moments year after year. As a brand, generations of families have trusted our expertise on toys, and we hope to continue inspiring gift-givers this festive season.”

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Argos says all 20 toys, alongside thousands of other products, are available on their website and in selected stores nationwide.

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