TEHRAN- The 10th edition of the National Toy Festival, which is currently underway at Iran's Institute for Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults (IIDCYA) in Tehran, will continue until the weekend despite the recent unrests. 

The event, which is received well by the families, is a platform for Iranian-made toys and the promotion of a culture of play, IRNA reported. 

Back in December, Hamed Alamati, the director of the IIDCYA, announced that over 200 local manufacturers have participated at the event, demonstrating the country’s industrial and cultural capabilities through the display of more than 3,000 Iran-made products. 

“This marks an increase from approximately 2,200 products last year, aligning with the year’s slogan ‘Investment in Production’ and the government’s developmental policies.”

Alamati also detailed competitive sections where top producers are evaluated based on quality, educational value, health standards, and other criteria. A special segment is dedicated to showcasing traditional and local dolls. Additionally, a section is dedicated to multimedia content and promotional videos, emphasizing the importance of creative media production. A toy donation initiative for underprivileged areas is also a part of the festival, encouraging family participation.

Addressing government policies, Alamati highlighted the administration’s focus on achieving cultural and educational justice. He noted that festivals and exhibitions serve as symbolic steps toward this goal.

The 10th National Toy Festival, organized by the Institute for Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults in collaboration with various organizations including the Toy Manufacturers Association, the Cognitive Sciences and Technologies Development Council, Tehran Municipality, and Soore University, aims to support domestic products, foster industry connections, and promote innovation in toy design and manufacturing.

Since its inaugural event in 2015, the festival has grown significantly, with more than 200 Iranian toy producers participating this year, reflecting the sector’s positive trajectory over the past decade.

The festival is expected to be a vibrant hub for cultural exchange, innovation, and the promotion of Iran’s rich toy-making heritage.

The festival, themed “Play, the Joy of Life,” runs until January 18 at the Institute for Intellectual Development of Children and Young Adults in Tehran.

SAB/