Barbie Doll Collection Convention heads to Cleveland

CLEVELAND - For the first time ever, the National Barbie Doll Collector Convention will be held in Cleveland.

The convention will be held July 24 at the Renaissance Cleveland Hotel downtown.

Barbie (who by the way turned 51 this year, but doesn't look a day older than 20), is one of Mattel's most popular toys, and perhaps the most recognizable.  She was first brought to the toy market in 1959 by an American businesswoman named Ruth Handler.

Barbie enthusiasts attending the convention can meet the doll designers or partake in some fun activities and reminisce about the dolls from way back when. 

This year's theme is "Barbie and the Rockers" (in fact, this author used to have that very "rocker" Barbie as part of my own collection).

WHO: Barbie Collectors, Barbie doll designers and Barbie brand spokespeople

WHEN: July 24, 2010 

10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: Renaissance Cleveland Hotel

24 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44113

*The cost for admission for the public is $8; children under 12 will be $3.