Kids can start building LEGO sets at different ages depending on the complexity of the set and the child's individual development. LEGO offers products specifically designed for younger children, such as the DUPLO line, which is targeted towards children as young as 1.5 years old. These sets feature larger pieces that are easier to handle and pose less of a choking hazard. As children grow older, typically around age 4 or 5, they can begin to explore more traditional LEGO sets, which come with smaller pieces and require more fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities. These sets are often marked with an age recommendation to help guide parents and caregivers in selecting appropriate options for their child's developmental stage. As children become more experienced with LEGO building, they can progress to more complex sets designed for older kids and even adults.
Best LEGO Sets for Kids of January 2025
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Rating is 5 out of 5
LEGO Star Wars Venator-Class Republic Attack Cruiser, Ultimate May The 4th Collectibles, Series Building Set with Captain Rex Minifigure, Star Wars Fan Gift, Stress Relief Clone Wars Activity, 75367
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The Venator-Class Republic Attack Cruiser (75367) – Relive classic battles from the Clone Wars era as you construct this LEGO Star Wars Ultimate Collector Series build-and-display model
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2 LEGO minifigures – Includes Clone Wars leaders Captain Rex and Admiral Yularen
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Recreate authentic details – Capture instantly recognizable features in LEGO style, from the command bridge to the hangar with a buildable scale model of a Republic Gunship inside
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Made for display – This building set construction model has a built-in display stand with an information plaque, a Clone Wars 20th-anniversary brick and space for the 2 LEGO minifigures
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Rating is 4.9 out of 5
LEGO Ideas Grand Piano 21323 Model Building Set for Adults, Collectible Home Décor Kit, Gift for Music Lovers with Motor and Power Functions
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Functional Design - Large LEGO set for adults features the first-ever, 'playable' Grand Piano model with 14 songs accessible via the LEGO Powered Up app
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Powered Up - This is the first Ideas set equipped with Powered Up components; a hub, a motor, and a WeDo 2.0 Motion Sensor, a perfect creative DIY project
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Real Components - This piano has an opening fallboard, 25 separate moving keys each with its own real hammer action, moving pedal and dampers, and more
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Choose Your Song - The piano's lid can be folded/raised and propped up, with an adjustable music stand wide enough for a smartphone. Enjoy as you play the song of your choosing
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Authentic Details - Includes an opening battery access panel, removable keyboard to admire authentic functional details, a piano stool with adjustable height, and roller caster wheels on all 3 legs for easy movement
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Rating is 4.8 out of 5
LEGO Technic Bugatti Chiron 42083 Race Car Building Kit and Engineering Toy, Adult Collectible Sports Car with Scale Model Engine (3599 Pieces)
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The perfect gift for car lovers and future engineers! Build and experience a quintessential collectible sports car – the LEGO Technic Bugatti Chiron! Developed in partnership with Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S, this is a faithful recreation of the real car
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The Bugatti advanced model car build is created with 3599 pieces and features a classic duo-tone blue color scheme, This set is the perfect addition to any adult or teen's car collection and can be played with or used for display
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This 1:8 scale Bugatti Chiron race car model features an active rear wing, 8-speed gearbox with paddle gear shift, W16 engine, steering wheel, suspension and spoked rims and comes in luxurious box packaging with a collector's booklet
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The LEGO Technic Bugatti Chiron model car building kit can be built together with all LEGO Technic sets and LEGO bricks for creative construction and extended play
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The Bugatti model car measures over 5 inches (14cm) high, 22 inches (56cm) long and 9 inches (25cm) wide
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Rating is 4.7 out of 5
LEGO Icons The Lord of The Rings: Rivendell Building Model Kit for Adults, Construct and Display a Middle-Earth Valley with 15 Minifigures, A Great Gift for LOTR Fans and Movie-Lovers, 10316
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Build a Middle-earth valley – Create and display a LEGO version of Rivendell with this THE LORD OF THE RINGS: RIVENDELL (10316) building model kit for adults
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6,167 pieces filled with movie magic – The set is an immersive project that’s bursting with details and references to The Lord of the Rings movie trilogy, which all fans will recognize
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Detailed decor – Details include Frodo's bedroom and Elrond's study, and the different sections can be displayed separately: for example, the Council of Elrond can be lifted off the main model
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Iconic characters – The building set features 15 minifigures, including legendary characters such as Frodo, Sam, Bilbo Baggins, Boromir, Gimli, Aragorn, Legolas and Gandalf the Grey
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Recreate your favorite scenes – The set makes it easy to recreate iconic moments including the Council of Elrond scene and the moment the Fellowship crosses the bridge at the start of their journey
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Rating is 4.6 out of 5
LEGO Icons Boutique Hotel 10297 Modular Building Display Model Kit for Adults to Build, Set with 5 Detailed Rooms Including Guest Rooms and Gallery
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LEGO Boutique Hotel set for adults is a tribute to turn-of-the-century European architecture, celebrating 15 years of LEGO Modular Buildings
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Authentic architectural details with 5 sections including guest rooms, penthouse, terrace and staircase, plus an art gallery and coffee cart
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This LEGO hotel set includes 7 minifigures: porter, receptionist, coffee vendor and gallery owner alongside a selection of guests and staff
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Packed with stories and details that honor LEGO Modular Buildings of the past - have fun discovering all the references to previous sets
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Spot elements that have been crafted into something new – like the handcuffs and snakeheads used in the building’s railings
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The 3,066 piece set also allows builders to try new techniques to construct their creation - like sideways building.
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Rating is 4.5 out of 5
LEGO Icons Land Rover Classic Defender 90 10317 Model Car Building Set for Adults and Classic Car Lovers, This Immersive Project Based on an Off-Road Icon Makes a Great Graduation Gift for Him or Her
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Indulge your creativity – Build and display a LEGO Icons Land Rover Classic Defender 90 (10317), an immersive project that lets adults create, customize and display their own collectible classic car
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Authentic details – The model features functional steering, opening doors, working suspension and a hood that opens. Inside there are accurate interior details and a coffee cup for the driver
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Ready for adventure – Customize this model car collectible with off-road accessories including a roll cage, fire extinguisher, jerry cans, toolbox, working winch, mudguards and traction plates
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Choose your drive – Build the car as a left-hand or right-hand drive vehicle. It comes with the choice of a diesel or a petrol engine, plus 3 different hood options
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Gift for car lovers – This building set for adults makes a great graduation gift for him or her, as well as anyone who likes cool vehicles and collectible display cars
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Dimensions – The clean version of the model measures over 6 in. (16 cm) high, 12.5 in. (32 cm) longand 6 in. (16 cm) wide
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Rating is 4.4 out of 5
LEGO Architecture Statue of Liberty 21042 Model Building Set - Collectible New York City Souvenir, Creative Home Décor or Office Centerpiece, Great Gift Idea for Adults and Teens
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Lady Liberty Statue - Features a Lady Liberty statue with flowing robe, detailed pedestal with shield, brick detailing, and columned balconies.
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Iconic Statue Elements - Includes broken shackles, 7-ray crown, iconic tablet, upraised arm with golden torch, and a decorative nameplate.
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Authentic Color Scheme - Finished with a sand-green and beige color scheme, this model set delivers a highly satisfying building experience.
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Symbolic Display - An icon of freedom, the statue was a gift to the United States from France in 1886, symbolizing liberty.
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Rating is 4.3 out of 5
LEGO Technic Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance Race Car Building Set, Scale Model Car Gift for Adults, Authentically Detailed Build and Display Model for Home or Office Décor, 42171
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Build and display a Mercedes F1 model car – This LEGO Technic Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance building kit for adults is packed with authentic details from the 2023 car to delight motorsport fans
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Test out the steering – Features include slick tires, plus steering that can be controlled using the steering wheel or with the knob on top of the car
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Authentic features and details – Features include the differential and the 6-cylinder engine with its moving pistons, plus the opening wing inspired by the real-world car’s DRS
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A display piece for home or office decor – With authentic livery details, this model can be admired from every angle, so celebrate your building achievement by placing it on display
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A racing car gift project for adults – This Mercedes-AMG F1 W14 E Performance set makes a rewarding gift for adult fans of motorsport who enjoy challenging projects
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3D building instructions – Get ready to build like never before with the LEGO Builder app, where you can save sets, track your progress, zoom in and rotate your model in 3D
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Rating is 4.2 out of 5
LEGO Icons Lamborghini Countach 5000 Quattrovalvole Model Car Kit - Collectible Building Set for Adults, Ages 18+ - Detailed Lamborghini Car Kit with Scissor Doors, V12 Engine, and More - 10337
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LAMBORGHINI COUNTACH 5000 QUATTROVALVOLE REPLICA – This LEGO Icons model car is a building set for adults and is designed for fans of luxury cars, car enthusiasts, and vintage car collectors
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MODEL CAR KIT – This collectible vehicle building set includes everything you need to craft a detailed in-scale replica of the Lamborghini Countach 5000 Quattrovalvole
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AUTHENTIC FEATURES – This LEGO car model has a detailed cockpit with working steering, opening scissor doors, trunk and rear hood, a detailed V12 engine, deep-dish rims and a large rear spoiler
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VINTAGE CAR DECOR – Embark on an immersive journey of craftsmanship as you create a display for any home or workplace
10
Rating is 4.1 out of 5
LEGO Technic Ferrari Daytona SP3 42143, Race Car Model Building Kit, 1:8 Scale Advanced Collectible Set for Adults, Ultimate Cars Concept Series, Great Anniversary and Father's Day Gift for Car Lover
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Car-lovers can recreate all the details of the ultimate sports car with this collectible LEGO Technic Ferrari Daytona SP3 car model building kit
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The LEGO race car has loads of authentic features, such as: opening butterfly doors, a removable roof and shock absorbers
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This LEGO advanced set for adults also includes a decorated display plate and unique serial number to unlock online rewards and content
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Designed in collaboration with Ferrari and features many authentic details: steering, V12 engine and 8-speed sequential gearbox with paddle shift
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The 4th addition to the LEGO Technic Ultimate Car Concept series: a range of models inspired by some of the world’s most luxurious cars
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Rating is 4 out of 5
LEGO Harry Potter Hogwarts Castle and Grounds 76419 Building Set, Gift Idea for Adults, Buildable Display Model, Collectible Harry Potter Playset, Recreate Iconic Scenes from The Wizarding World
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The first LEGO brick model of the Hogwarts Castle and Grounds (76419) – Recreate the most iconic location with this buildable LEGO Harry Potter display set
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Scale model – Build and display Hogwarts Castle and its surrounding area, including the Main Tower, Astronomy Tower, Great Hall, courtyards, bridges, greenhouses, Boathouse and the Black Lake
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Revel in details – Check out the Chamber of Secrets, The Winged Key room, Potions Classroom and Chessboard Chamber, plus the Durmstrang Ship, Beauxbatons Carriage, Whomping Willow and Ford Anglia
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Gift idea – Treat yourself or give this 2,660-piece buildable display model to adult Harry Potter fans and collectors as a holiday gift, birthday present or special surprise
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Build and display – This 2,660-piece Hogwarts Castle model measures over8.5 in. (21 cm) high, 13.5 in. (35 cm) wide and 10 in. (25 cm) deep
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Includes a statue minifigure – Place the gold-colored Hogwarts architect statue next to the “Hogwarts Castle” nameplate or at the corner of the baseplate to complete the display
What is the educational value of LEGO sets?
LEGO sets offer a wide range of educational benefits for children and even adults. Here are some of the key areas where LEGO sets can be valuable educational tools:
- Creativity and Imagination: LEGO encourages creative play, allowing individuals to design and build their own structures, fostering imaginative thinking.
- Problem-solving Skills: Building LEGO sets often involves overcoming challenges and figuring out how different pieces fit together, which enhances problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
- Fine Motor Skills: Handling small LEGO pieces helps develop fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. This is especially beneficial for young children developing their dexterity.
- Mathematical Concepts: LEGO introduces basic mathematical concepts such as symmetry, geometry, and fractions. Counting studs, estimating sizes, and working with proportions are inherent to building.
- Engineering and Architecture: Complex LEGO sets can introduce principles of engineering and architecture, demonstrating how structures are built and hold together.
- Patience and Persistence: Completing a LEGO set requires patience and attention to detail. It teaches the importance of following instructions and persistence in completing a task.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: When working in groups, building LEGO sets can enhance teamwork and communication skills as individuals must share ideas and coordinate roles.
- Spatial Awareness: Visualizing and constructing 3D models from 2D instructions helps develop spatial skills, important for fields like engineering, design, and architecture.
- Science and Technology: Some LEGO sets, like LEGO Mindstorms or LEGO Boost, incorporate robotics and coding, introducing children to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) concepts.
- Language and Literacy: Engaging with LEGO play can lead to storytelling and narrative development, enhancing language and literacy skills as builders describe and talk about their creations.
Overall, LEGO sets provide a versatile platform for a variety of educational opportunities, making learning interactive, engaging, and fun.
How to create custom LEGO designs?
Creating custom LEGO designs can be a fun and rewarding process. Here’s how you can get started:
- Gather Inspiration:
Look for inspiration online through platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and LEGO-themed websites.
Visit official LEGO sites or local stores to see new sets and themes.
Explore fan forums and communities such as LEGO Ideas or Brickset for unique builds.
- Choose a Theme or Concept:
Decide on a theme for your custom design (e.g., cityscape, spaceship, nature).
Consider the size and complexity of the model you want to build.
- Collect LEGO Pieces:
Use the LEGO bricks you already own, or purchase additional bricks online via sites like BrickLink or directly from LEGO’s Pick a Brick service.
Try to gather a variety of colors and shapes that fit your design theme.
- Use LEGO Design Software:
Digital LEGO design tools like LEGO Digital Designer (LDD) or other third-party software such as Studio by BrickLink can help you create virtual models before physical building.
These programs allow you to view your designs in 3D and make adjustments easily.
- Plan Your Build:
Sketch out your design either on paper or using design software.
Break down your model into smaller sections or modules to make the build process more manageable.
- Start Building:
Begin constructing your design, starting from the base and working up or according to your plan.
Don’t be afraid to test different configurations and rearrange elements as you build.
- Modify and Optimize:
During the building process, you might find certain elements don’t work as planned. Be flexible and ready to make adjustments.
Add additional details or refine aspects for better aesthetics or stability.
- Document Your Creation:
Take photos of your completed build and if desired, create instructions using digital tools or presentation software.
Share your creation with the community to receive feedback and suggestions for improvement.
- Display or Submit Your Design:
If you're proud of your creation, display it prominently.
Consider submitting your design to LEGO Ideas for a chance to have it produced as an official LEGO set.
- Engage with the Community:
Join online groups or local LEGO clubs to share your designs and receive feedback.
Participate in contests or events to further hone your skills and gain visibility.
By following these steps, you can create personalized and unique LEGO models that reflect your creativity and interests.
How to incorporate LEGO building into learning activities?
Incorporating LEGO building into learning activities can greatly enhance student engagement and foster a range of skills, from problem-solving to creativity. Here are some ideas on how to use LEGO in educational settings:
- STEM Education:
Engineering Concepts: Use LEGO to teach basic engineering principles such as balance, symmetry, and structural integrity. Projects can include building bridges, towers, or simple machines.
Coding and Robotics: Utilize LEGO Mindstorms or LEGO Boost to introduce students to programming and robotics. These kits allow students to build and program robots to perform tasks, which can act as a practical introduction to coding.
- Mathematics:
Fractions and Ratios: LEGO bricks can visually and physically represent fractions and ratios, helping students understand these concepts through manipulation and visualization.
Geometry: Use LEGO to explore geometric concepts, such as area and perimeter. Challenge students to create shapes or models and calculate their dimensions.
- Literacy and Language Arts:
Storytelling: Have students build scenes or characters and then create stories based on their creations. This can help develop narrative skills and creativity.
Vocabulary Building: Use LEGO pieces to represent different vocabulary words, encouraging students to build a model that reflects the word’s meaning.
- History and Social Studies:
Historical Reenactments: Task students with recreating historical landmarks or scenes using LEGO bricks, providing a tactile way to engage with history.
Community Building: Develop a project where students create models of their community or a city, which can help explore urban planning and community roles.
- Art and Design:
Creative Expression: Allow students to use LEGO bricks in freestyle art projects, supporting the exploration of design elements like color, form, and function.
Scale Models: Encourage students to create scaled-down models of objects or buildings, teaching them to consider proportions and perspectives.
- Teamwork and Communication:
Collaborative Builds: Organize group projects where students must work together to build a complex model, promoting teamwork, communication, and project management skills.
Problem Solving: Present challenges or puzzles that students must solve using LEGO bricks, fostering critical thinking and collaborative problem-solving.
In all of these activities, it's important to encourage reflection and discussion about the process and the outcomes, helping students make connections between the hands-on activity and the underlying academic concepts.
How to handle LEGO pieces that go missing?
Losing LEGO pieces can be quite frustrating, but there are several strategies you can try to handle the situation:
- Thorough Search: Double-check the area where you were building. LEGO pieces can easily roll or fall into small crevices, so look under furniture and in any nearby containers.
- Use a Flashlight: A flashlight can help illuminate dark areas where the piece may have fallen. It can also help to look along the floor from a low angle, as this can make pieces easier to spot.
- Contact LEGO Customer Service: If the piece is part of a new set, LEGO’s customer service is generally quite helpful. They often provide replacements for missing or lost pieces if you contact them through their website.
- Check Online Marketplaces: Websites like BrickLink or Brick Owl specialize in LEGO pieces. You can often find individual pieces for sale if they are essential to your build.
- Use Alternative Pieces: Depending on the piece, you might be able to substitute it with a different color or similar part from your collection.
- Organized Storage: Store your LEGO pieces in an organized manner to minimize future losses. Sort by color, type, or set to make them easier to find and prevent losses.
- Prevent Future Loss: Consider building on large trays or within containers to catch pieces that might fall. Also, involve others in your search, as many eyes can be better than just yours.
These steps should help you either recover the missing pieces or find a suitable alternative to complete your LEGO project.
What is the most popular LEGO theme for kids?
The popularity of LEGO themes can vary over time and depend on trends, new releases, and marketing efforts. However, as of the latest available data, themes like LEGO City and LEGO Friends are consistently popular among kids. LEGO City is appreciated for its realistic scenarios that allow children to create urban environments and role-play everyday situations, while LEGO Friends is well-liked for its focus on friendship and detailed, colorful sets often geared toward storytelling. Additionally, LEGO themes based on popular franchises like LEGO Star Wars, LEGO Harry Potter, and LEGO Marvel Super Heroes also enjoy significant popularity due to their connection with beloved movies and characters.
