With the holidays around the corner, it’s a good time to consider shopping local, and Earth Explorer Toys, 27 E. Pine St., is reminding the community to do just that by celebrating Neighborhood Toy Store Day.
Taking place today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the event will see 10-year-old retailer Earth Explorer Toys offer events throughout the day. A Hollywood caricature artist will draw pictures of kids live via Skype, and Marines will be present to collect new and gently used toys for Toys for Tots. In addition, Zionsville middle schooler Kathleen Donoho, author of “The Village Alien,” will sign copies of the book. There will also be hourly giveaways, games, crafts, glitter tattoos and more.
Neighborhood Toy Store Day, in its third year, is a national initiative by the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA) to promote the benefits of shopping at local toy stores and more than 500 stores across the country will participate in the daylong celebration.
“When you shop at an independent toy store, you are entering a universe of play possibilities,” says Kathleen McHugh, president of ASTRA. “Neighborhood Toy Store Day is about celebrating the role the local store plays in the community. We are highlighting the expertise your local store has in selecting just the right toy to help your child grow and learn through play.”
More dollars spent in local, independently-owned stores stay in the community – 25 percent more in contrast with national chains, according to the 3/50 Project.
Earth Explorer Toys also will have toys on hand from ASTRA’s 2012 Best Toys for Kids Award list, as well as a mailbox for dropping off letters to Santa to kick off the holiday season. For a complete schedule of events, visit the store’s Web site at www.EarthExplorerToys.com.