The holiday season is a time of excitement and anticipation, especially for children eagerly awaiting their most desired toys. However, the quest to secure these coveted items has sometimes led to chaotic and even dangerous situations in stores. In 1983, Cabbage Patch Kids dolls were the must-have toy.

Each doll was unique, sparking a rush of parents trying to get the perfect one for their child. The limited supply led to mobs of parents trying to buy restocks, creating frenzied and sometimes violent scenes. Another toy that caused a frenzy was Tickle Me Elmo in 1996.

The intense demand for Elmos during that holiday season led to physical confrontations. At one Walmart, the cry of “There’s the Elmos!” sparked a stampede, causing serious safety concerns. When Furbys were launched in 1998, they quickly became an object of desire for young Americans.

Parents, determined to provide their child with one of these odd, squawking furballs, often ended up in chaotic situations.

Cabbage Patch chaos sparks toy frenzy

At a Walmart in Bethlehem, Arkansas, prospective Furby owners stampeded when a new shipment arrived, resulting in dangerous conditions.

More recently, the release of Disney’s Frozen in 2013 led to a shortage of Elsa dolls as the holiday season approached. Even Disney’s top executives were unprepared for the overwhelming success and demand, leading to frantic scenes in stores as people tried to secure an Elsa doll for their children. While not always causing violence at the point-of-sale, Pokemon cards have also sparked intense situations.

Once these cards, particularly valuable ones, were in circulation among children, they created an entire resale and trade market in schools. This occasionally led to serious disagreements and even bans on the cards in many schools across the country to prevent conflicts. These examples highlight how the desire to fulfill a child’s wish for a particular toy has sometimes led to intense and even dangerous shopping experiences.

The limited supply and high demand for certain items have created frenzied scenes in stores, with parents going to great lengths to secure the coveted toy. As online shopping has become more prevalent, the nature of these toy crazes may have changed. However, the excitement and anticipation surrounding the season’s “it” toy remain.

Whether it’s a classic like Cabbage Patch Kids or a modern favorite like Frozen dolls, the quest to bring joy to a child’s face continues to drive parents during the holiday shopping season, even if it means braving the crowds and the chaos.