Delightful toys & trains galore and bedazzling trinkets & treasures made in Santa’s Workshop really do exist!

Welcome to Nordica Toys, a shop just like in the North Pole – filled with over 10,000 toys – that will surely captivate the imagination of every child on the “nice” list.

Visiting this amazing holiday shopping destination – located in the historic district at 7 Main Street in New Milford – is like taking a step back in time. This old-fashioned toy store is filled with an abundance of classic toys and games & plenty of today’s fascinating gizmos and gadgets, too.

Marie McCarthy, owner of Nordica Toy Store, says that Christmas is her holiday, and shh… she may very well be Mrs. Claus in disguise.

As a girl, Marie recalls the joy of shopping for and giving gifts to others. Her mother’s living room was always completely full of presents. “Coming from a large family, it took us two hours to open all of the gifts on Christmas Eve.”

Jigsaw puzzles from her mom were always a favorite, and she makes sure there’s a large selection to choose from. Vermont Christmas Company, Peter Pauper Press, Springbok, Manhattan Baby & hard to find Ravensburger puzzles are all great choices.

Getting an early start on holiday shopping is what Steven Neal is doing for three children. “Nordica Toys has a fantastic selection of interesting things, and this is the first place I always go. I’ll be coming back for stocking stuffers,” he said. My Garden Fairy Light Terrace, Playmobil Bakery, and a Roy Toy Log Cabin Building Set are neat finds.

Marie especially enjoys sharing gift ideas and giving little shoppers a wish list to give to Santa.

There’s a plethora of Christmas classics like nativity scene toys for little hands, advent calendars of all kinds, and seasonal arts & crafts.

Some wintery must-haves include sleighs, saucers, and snowball makers. Arctic Gear & Snow Boggin sleds are super for active kids. Create A Castle, a New Milford company, makes molds that are perfect for building snow castles.

Adorable, colorful elves & Christmas gnomes are everywhere and come in all shapes and sizes. Try to find all of them throughout the store!

Snuggling up and reading holiday stories with a child is a delightful family tradition. A book of poetry by Robert Frost & Olive, the Other Reindeer are just a few of Marie’s favorites. She carries many of the classics and tons of unique and funny book options, too.

Wooden trains – synonymous with Christmas – include Thomas & Friends, Brio, and Melissa & Doug sets and accessories.

Fidget spinners, glittery finds, sparkly jewelry, tiny pullback cars and trucks, and sticker books are perfect for stocking stuffers & Hannukah gifts.

This year’s craze may very well be Fun in Motion Toys like the Shashibo mystery & Wandini magic blocks.

As for Nordica Toy’s customers, Marie especially enjoys seeing siblings shopping for each other. “It’s cute to see one child shopping with Dad while Mom waits outside with another child, then they switch.”

Some of the most memorable shoppers include individual shoppers – and employees shopping on behalf of their employers – who buy for nonprofits. Marie also recalls how one woman would regularly buy out an entire set of Playmobil, usually around eight pieces. “When twins were born, she would then buy two of everything,” she said.

Marie makes the shopping experience extra special with complimentary gift wrapping. Curbside pickup and gift certificates in any amount are also offered. There’s a 10% off coupon on the website.

One thing is certain, Marie’s love for Christmas and the holidays shines bright. It’s apparent throughout this dreamy toy store, where holiday cheer is sprinkled in every nook & cranny.

Nordica Toys Hours

(Open 7 Days a Week)

Monday through Friday – 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday – 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sunday – 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Visit:  Nordica Toys website & like / follow on Facebook.

(Closing at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Closed Christmas Day & on the 26^th.)

Related Article:

Nordica Toy Store is All Grown Up at Age 40!

Article & Photos:

Alicia Sakal, Candlewood Lake Magazine