Mansfield Toy Show draws on childhood nostalgia on Feb. 1

MANSFIELD — A wave of nostalgia is about to hit the Richland County Fairgrounds. One glance at the tables, and you’re 8 years old again, standing in the toy aisle — dreaming big.

Located at 750 North Home Road, the Mansfield Toy Show returns Feb. 1. Parents, kids and longtime collectors can expect a day filled with discovery, bonding and nostalgia all wrapped into one.

Admission from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. costs $5. Early admission at 8 a.m. costs $10. Children 10 and under get in free.

31-year tradition lives on in Mansfield

The Mansfield Toy Show has called the Richland County Fairgrounds home for 31 years. Owner, James Ford said he plans to keep the tradition rolling for many more.

With over 150 vendors already signed up, the Mansfield Toy Show delivers wall-to-wall toys and collectibles from nearly every era.

“From vintage favorites to modern must-haves, the Mansfield Toy Show is all about reliving great memories, discovering new ones and just enjoying the excitement of being surrounded by people who love toys as much as you do,” Ford said.

He added visitors can expect a fun, welcoming experience filled with toys and collectibles from many different eras.

“It’s the kind of place where nostalgia hits you the moment you walk in, and you’ll keep finding things that make you say, ‘Wow, I had that as a kid,'” he said.

Those moments never get old for Ford. He said the energy in the room — the conversations, laughter and stories shared between vendors and visitors — makes the toy show what it is.

“Every year feels a little different, but that sense of excitement and nostalgia is always there, and it’s incredibly rewarding to help create that experience for the community,” he said.

Watching parents bring their children and share the love of certain toys and memories they grew up with is what Ford said he looks forward to every year with the Mansfield Toy Show.

Ford noted events like the Mansfield Toy Show are important because they create a true sense of community. Families, collectors and neighbors are all brought together in a welcoming environment.

“Beyond the fun and nostalgia, the show also supports local and small businesses, helping strengthen the local economy,” Ford said.

A collector turned promoter

Ford owns the Mansfield Toy Show, the Columbus Toy and Game Show and Out of This World Collectibles. His lifelong collection started long before selling toys as a vendor and learning the business from the original owners of the show, Kevin Spore and Tim Babcock.

“In 2003, I had the opportunity to launch the Columbus Toy Show, which has grown into one of the largest toy and collector events in Ohio,” Ford said. “When the previous promoters invited me to take over Mansfield’s, I was thrilled to embrace the opportunity.”

Being able to continue the tradition of the Mansfield Toy Show is an honor, Ford said community, fun and celebration brings everyone together when at the toy show.

“My favorite part is seeing people’s reactions when they spot something they loved as a kid,” Ford said. “You’ll watch someone stop in their tracks, smile, and say, ‘I can’t believe this is here, I had this’.”

For Ford, the Mansfield Toy Show is more than just an event. He calls it an experience creating lasting memories, building community pride and giving people of all ages something special to look forward to in Mansfield.

(Photos from previous years. Provided by James Ford)