Terra Toys preps for festive Black Friday & Small Business Saturday with nostalgic magic

AUSTIN, Texas — For Austinites, the iconic Terra Toys sign at the corner of Anderson Lane and Burnet Road is more than just a landmark—it’s a beacon of nostalgia and holiday cheer.

“We carry over 2,000 different vendors of toys,” says Sylvia Edwards, CEO and General Manager of Terra Toys. “Every dollar spent here is a vote for what you want to keep in business.”

This mom-and-pop shop, a cherished part of the community since 1979, has been creating holiday magic for 45 years.

Originally starting as a wholesaler of hand-carved, hand-painted toys, Terra Toys opened its now-iconic brick-and-mortar location in 1980, quickly becoming a local favorite.

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As the countdown to the holidays begins, Terra Toys is gearing up to shine during two of the year’s busiest shopping days: Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.

“Black Friday for us is a big day, but it really pops off on Small Business Saturday,” Edwards shares.

The store is abuzz with activity, from customers exploring aisles filled with unique toys to staff preparing in-store demonstrations of their annual “Top 10 Staff Picks,” featuring books, games, and toys handpicked by the Terra Toys team.

Terra Toys is more than a store for many customers—it’s a journey back in time.

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“So many adults like to come into Terra Toys and find things that remind them of their childhood,” says store manager Sophia Zielinski. “Things that bring happiness and joy.”

Classic items like Magic 8 Balls, Lite-Brites, and View-Masters remain popular, as adults seek nostalgia.

According to recent trends, adults spent over $6 billion on toys for themselves last year—a trend that Terra Toys is more than happy to cater to.

This year, top sellers include stuffed animals, tactile fidget toys, and surprise collectibles like Calico Critters blind bags.

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“Calico Critters, especially their seasonal series like the baby baking party, are super popular right now,” Zielinski notes.

The store offers a wide range of options for shoppers on a budget, from $2 fidget toys to $150 plush animals.

“We cater to every budget,” says Edwards. “That’s what makes the shopping experience here so fun—for both our customers and our team.”

What sets Terra Toys apart is its personal touch.

The store exudes charm and community spirit from its family-owned roots to its dedicated team.

“It’s unlike any other toy store because of the people that work here and the fact that it’s family-owned,” Zielinski adds.

Whether you’re shopping for a child or indulging in your inner kid, Terra Toys is ready to make your holidays magical.