Museo Leikki nominated for EMYA2026

Museo Leikki – The Museum of Play has been nominated for the European Museum of the Year Award (EMYA) 2026. EMYA is one of the most prestigious museum awards in Europe, established in 1977 under the auspices of the Council of Europe. In 2026, a total of 35 museums from across Europe have been selected as nominees.

The EMYA awards recognise museums that promote public quality, audience engagement, innovative practices and the renewal of the museum field. The nomination is an important acknowledgment of Museo Leikki’s long-term development work and its commitment to preserving and presenting the cultural heritage of play and childhood.

Museo Leikki’s nomination is based on its phenomenon-based and innovative approach to museum work, where community involvement, participatory exhibitions and the promotion of diversity play a central role. The museum provides an accessible and welcoming experience for all visitors, collaborates closely with various hobbyist and fan communities, and continuously develops new ways to safeguard intangible play heritage. These practices have contributed to Museo Leikki being selected as one of the EMYA2026 nominees.

The winners of EMYA2026 will be announced in Bilbao during the EMYA Annual Conference, held on 10–14 June 2026. The conference brings together museum professionals from across Europe, previous award recipients, partners and all 2026 nominated museums.