Top 10 US Christmas Product Categories to Watch in 2026

A US Christmas 2026 forecast of ten product categories highlighted in retail outlooks, consumer research and holiday gift lists.

This forecast brings together sales data, retail outlooks, consumer research and holiday gift lists to identify ten product categories with strong US Christmas demand prospects. Categories supported by multiple demand signals rank higher.

1. Pokémon Trading Card Game products

Trading cards are a strong Christmas line. Circana’s first-half data recorded 45% dollar growth in the Games & Puzzles supercategory, helped by cards, collectibles and sports-related products; overall US toy sales rose 17% in dollars and 12% in units. Sealed Pokémon TCG products, including booster bundles, collection boxes, tins and beginner products, offer giftable formats. Sleeves, deck boxes and binders provide lower-priced add-ons.

2. NeeDoh sensory toys

Squishy toys have gained momentum, with sales rising at a triple-digit rate through April. NeeDoh has been one of the brands driving that growth. The familiar cube and a small selection of distinctive shapes suit stocking gifts and impulse purchases, although a viral design can turn over faster than the wider range.

3. LEGO building sets

Building sets recorded 22% first-half growth, and LEGO led toy brand consideration among holiday shoppers, with 48% considering the brand. Smaller giftable boxes can sit alongside larger licensed and display sets. LEGO Botanicals also reaches adult buyers looking for a hands-on gift that becomes a decorative piece.

4. KPop Demon Hunters toys

Licensed toys grew 24% in the first half and accounted for 39% of toy sales. KPop Demon Hunters products bring that wider momentum together with a current entertainment property. Plush, figures and character accessories are the main formats to consider, subject to the availability of official releases.

5. Nintendo Switch 2

Nintendo Switch 2 is a premium console prospect for the holiday season. Bundles with a current game or controller can lift basket value, while cases and screen protection offer lower-priced add-ons. Product compatibility should be checked carefully across console generations.

6. Wireless earbuds, including AirPods Pro 3

Wireless audio leads technology gift consideration: the Consumer Technology Association’s 2026 survey found 67% of respondents were considering wireless headphones or earbuds, and 58% were considering earbuds. AirPods Pro 3 anchors the premium end, with established lower-priced models covering a wider budget range.

7. Sephora Favorites Holiday Perfume Sampler

The Sephora Favorites Holiday Perfume Sampler is a ready-to-give set with several fragrances and a voucher toward a full-size choice. Google’s 2026 Holiday 100 included the sampler, while perfume was the most-searched gift-set type in its trend data. Its seasonal format makes checking the current edition and availability essential.

8. Fujifilm Instax Mini 13 holiday set

Searches for Fujifilm Instax holiday sets rose 190% in 2026. The camera gives the gift an immediate use, while film supports repeat purchases. Bundles with compatible film and a small album or frame make a stronger present than the camera alone.

9. Dyson Airwrap multi-styler

The Dyson Airwrap appears in this year’s holiday retail forecasts as a premium beauty gift. Its higher price limits the buyer pool, but gift sets and included accessories can improve the offer. Demand for the Airwrap should not be assumed to transfer to every hair tool in the Dyson range.

10. Classic toy train sets

Search interest in “classic toy train set” rose 240% in 2026. The category spans entry-level battery-powered sets through more detailed models, giving retailers options at different price points. A complete starter set is the strongest gift proposition; track and accessories can support follow-on sales.

Other gift lines to watch

Holiday roundups also feature West Elm’s Holiday Skiers Stoneware Figural Mug, Stanley tumblers, the Yoto Player (3rd Gen), Theragun Mini Plus, Cozy Earth Bubble Cuddle Blanket, Ekouaer pajamas and Quince cashmere accessories. These offer opportunities across home, personal care, apparel and children’s products, especially for retailers with a clear customer fit.

The toy categories have the clearest support from first-half unit and dollar growth. Consoles, earbuds and beauty devices bring higher ticket values, while products such as Instax sets and train sets pair seasonal appeal with strong search interest. Assortment depth should reflect price point, supplier availability and the role each line can play in the wider basket.