National Teddy Bear Day

Child holding teddy bear tightly while walking through a whimsical park, both wearing matching outfits, surrounded by colorful balloons.. — National teddy bear day illustration

Remember those cuddly friends that used to ward off the monsters under our beds when we were kiddos? Yes! Our Teddy Bears! While we don’t need an excuse to celebrate our fluffy companions, it’s nice to know there’s a day dedicated to doing just that – National Teddy Bear Day! Lock up your picnic baskets, everyone, because the teddy bears are coming out to play!

When is Teddy Bear Day?

It's national teddy bear day on the 9th September.

A Brief Background of National Teddy Bear Day

First things first – when is National Teddy Bear Day? Queue your drumroll please... It’s on the 9th of September! Our records have detected an astonishing 9541 mentions online of this adorable day. Topping the charts was 9th September 2017 where plush enthusiasts worldwide seemed to go particularly bear-crazy!

The Furry Origins

No other toy has a political origin story like the teddy bear. Did you know it was named after President Theodore 'Teddy' Roosevelt, who refused to shoot a bear on a hunt? This compassionate tale inspired kindness that has been replicated in plush form for generations! In light of this, it’s no wonder we commemorate this cute teddy bear every year.

Celebrating with our Fuzzy Friends

So, how do you celebrate National Teddy Bear Day? It could be as simple as giving your childhood teddy an affectionate squeeze. Or, plan a movie night featuring 'Ted' - the naughty teddy bear! Just remember to keep it cute and cuddly!

WhyItMatters

The humble teddy bear is more than just a mere toy. It’s a symbol of comfort reassuring children all over the globe, thanks to its cuddly physique and 'beary' friendly face, making the world a slightly less scary place for them.

History behind the term 'Teddy Bear'

1902

Roosevelt's Hunting Trip

In 1902, President Theodore Roosevelt went on a hunting trip in Mississippi. During the trip, he refused to shoot a bear that had been captured and tied to a tree, deeming it unsportsmanlike. This event caught the attention of the press and quickly spread across the nation.

1902

Political Cartoon: 'Drawing the Line in Mississippi'

Clifford Berryman, a political cartoonist, created a cartoon titled 'Drawing the Line in Mississippi' depicting the hunting incident involving President Roosevelt. The cartoon was published in The Washington Post on November 16, 1902, and illustrated the compassionate gesture of Roosevelt sparing the bear.

1902

Morris Michtom's Teddy Bear

Inspired by the political cartoon, Morris Michtom, a Russian immigrant and owner of a Brooklyn candy store, decided to create a stuffed bear toy. He called it 'Teddy's bear' and displayed it in his store's window, dedicating it to President Roosevelt. The bear gained tremendous popularity and caught the attention of buyers.

1903

The Creation of the Teddy Bear

In 1903, Morris Michtom, along with his wife Rose, founded the Ideal Novelty and Toy Company to keep up with the overwhelming demand for the teddy bear. They mass-produced the cuddly toy and even received permission from President Roosevelt to use his name. The teddy bear craze spread rapidly, becoming a cultural phenomenon.

1906

Steiff Teddy Bears

In 1906, German toy company Margarete Steiff GmbH introduced their own line of teddy bears. These bears featured jointed limbs and were made using a mohair fabric. Steiff teddy bears added to the growing popularity of the toy and became highly sought after by collectors.

1912

First Teddy Bear Commercial

In 1912, the first teddy bear commercial aired on American television. The commercial featured a live-action teddy bear interacting with children, showcasing the toy's appeal and enchanting children worldwide. Teddy bears became a staple in the toy industry and solidified their place in popular culture.

1954

National Teddy Bear Day

Fast forward to 1954, and the first National Teddy Bear Day was established in the United States. Celebrated on September 9th, this special day aims to honor and appreciate the joy and comfort teddy bears provide to people of all ages. It has become an annual tradition and is celebrated by teddy bear enthusiasts worldwide.

Did you know?

Did you know the world's largest Teddy Bear collection is owned by Jackie Miley, who has over 8,000 different Teddy Bears? Now that's what you call bear-y dedicated!