American Girl Fans are Losing It Over the 2026 Doll of the Year’s Hidden Secret

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Everyone remembers their first… American Girl Doll, that is. Mine was Kit Kittredge — the scrappy writer from the Great Depression — gifted to me on my very first day of kindergarten.

The OG lineup also included Felicity, Samantha, Molly, Josefina, Addy, and Kirsten — each with equally complex backstories that somehow always seemed to mirror the personalities of the kids who chose them. Case in point: a Kit girl can spot another Kit girl from a mile away.

Now, a new generation (and plenty of grown-up collectors) have a freshly-released doll to be excited about: American Girl’s 2026 Doll of the Year, Raquel. Now on sale, Raquel, according to the brand, “loves DJing, taste-testing paletas at her family’s shop in Kansas City, and spending time with her lovable rescue pup, Luzita. For the summer, she’s heading to the East Coast for a big family reunion and wedding. Amid the fun-in-the-sun days with her cousins, she encounters a few surprises — including her great-great-grandmother’s diary.”

American Girl 2026 Doll of the Year: American Girl Deals, Discounts

Raquel 18-inch Doll & Journal (Girl of the Year 2026)

New release.

Could she be any cuter? Priced at $135, Raquel comes with clothing, accessories, a keepsake box, and — of course — the signature book that has always been one of the best parts of owning an American Girl Doll. Oh, and here’s the hidden secret: Raquel is a direct descendant of none other than Miss Samantha Parkington (she’s her great, great-granddaughter). One of the most popular dolls from the late eighties, this is a surprising easter egg that is one of the first of its kind from the famed toy company (and we hope to see a lot more of it in the future).

Raquel’s Accessories for 18-inch Dolls

Great deal.

The holidays are right around the corner, and if you want to avoid a Tickle Me Elmo–style fiasco circa 1996 (for those who know, know), we suggest grabbing Raquel now while she’s still on shelves. Whether you’re shopping for a niece, nephew, or even yourself (hello, healing your inner child is a thing), Raquel is a great addition to any collection.

Raquel’s Beach Chairs & Barbecue Set for 18-inch Dolls

High customer ratings.

Raquel continues a tradition American Girl started in 2001, when Lindsey Bergman became the very first Doll of the Year. Over time, the dolls’ stories have grown a little lighter — remember when poor Kaya had to survive kidnappers? But the sentiment of female empowerment, sparking new memories, and giving fans something to look forward to every year, stays the same.

I still have my original dolls from the early 2000s. Despite enduring countless “salon sessions” at home, they’re still in perfect condition, which is a true testament to the quality of the brand.

Grab Raquel, the 2026 American Girl Doll of the Year, while she is still in stock, and while you’re at it, check out some of the additional products you can buy too, including a beach set-up, pickleball gear, and matching outfits. If you want even more, we’ve also included some of the best American Girl Black Friday deals that are happening right now, where you can get a new doll for up to 30% off.

Raquel’s Seaside Car for 18-inch Dolls (Girl of the Year™ 2026)

Great gift.

Raquel’s Dog, Luzita (Girl of the Year 2026)

Selling fast.

The Best American Girl Doll Black Friday Deals 2025

American Girl Dolls are rarely on sale, typically retailing around $135 for a new doll. But right now, during Amazon’s Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, we spotted American Girl Dolls discounted by up to 30%. This includes the 2025 Doll of the Year, Summer McKinney.

With discounts this good, we don’t expect these products to stay in stock for long, so shop while you still can. Black Friday deals end tonight at midnight, and while there’s a good chance these discounts will continue through Cyber Monday, it’s not guaranteed. It’s better to purchase now before the deal ends.