Teddy Bear Picnic Day
Based on the early 20th Century pop song “The Teddy Bears’ Picnic”, this day is all about spending time on a picnic with friends, family, and teddy bears.
It’s a wonderful day for a stroll in the woods! Grab a favorite stuffed toy, a basket full of goodies, and set off for Teddy Bear Picnic Day!
How to Celebrate Teddy Bear Picnic Day
The celebration around this day hardly has any rules at all. It’s simply meant to be a day for families to enjoy each other, their stuffed animals and, if possible, a picnic! Try these ideas for celebrating Teddy Bear Picnic Day:
Host a Teddy Bear Picnic
Why not arrange an outing with friends and family, and to enjoy the summer sun, fun and games, and creativity with some favourite toys?
If the weather holds, then plan to have a picnic outside. If it doesn’t? No problem! Just have an indoor picnic by spreading a brightly colored tablecloth on the floor and laying out a yummy spread of foods.
Don’t forget to include teddy bears and other fluffy animal friends!
Listen to the Teddy Bears’ Picnic Song
Many different popular artists over the years have recorded versions of this song that have been enjoyed by children and adults alike.
- Henry Hall (1932). The first known recording of the song just after the lyrics were written. It was recorded by the BBC and was of particularly high quality.
- Bing Crosby (1950). One of the most famous crooners of his time (and beyond), Crosby recorded this classic song a few years before his popular film White Christmas was released.
- Anne Murray (1977). This popular recording by the Canadian singer, songwriter has been beloved by millions of children and adults over the years.
Learn the History of Teddy Bears
Those who don’t know the history of this adorable toy may be surprised to find that Teddy Bears have a decidedly political story behind them.
The story goes that the name came from a political cartoon about game-hunting US President Theodore Roosevelt. During a hunting trip in 1902, the president refused to shoot a bear that someone had tied to a tree, saying that shooting it would be unsportsmanlike. So the story went around about “Teddy’s Bear”.
From there, a shop owner decided to make and sell bears with the name Teddy Bear, which caught on and has now become part of American culture and tradition. A few years later the song, The Teddy Bears’ Picnic, was written and the day developed into a fun celebration for all!
History of Teddy Bear Picnic Day
When it comes to interesting reasons to celebrate, this is certainly one of the most unique days! This day was created based on the popular song of the same name, “The Teddy Bears’ Picnic”.
The song is a classic one, written to the tune of a song composed in 1907 by American John W. Bratton. The lyrics were added later, in 1930, by Jimmy Kennedy, a British songwriter.
Since the song became so popular, the day has evolved and is now celebrated by families in countries all over the world, enjoying the simple pleasure of a picnic with their favorite stuffed beings.
The lyrics of this clever song begin this way:
If you go down in the woods today
You’re sure of a big surprise
If you go down in the woods today
You’d better go in disguise!
For every bear that ever there was will gather there for certain
Because today’s the day the Teddy Bears have their picnic!
Teddy Bear Picnic Day FAQs
Did you know that teddy bears have inspired world records?
In 2011, over 35,000 teddy bears and their owners gathered in Dublin’s Phoenix Park for a massive picnic, setting a record for the largest teddy bear picnic.
How did the teddy bear get its name?
In 1902, U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt refused to shoot a bear cub during a hunting trip, deeming it unsportsmanlike. This incident inspired the creation of the “Teddy Bear,” named after the president.
What is the origin of the song ‘The Teddy Bears’ Picnic’?
Composed in 1907 by John W. Bratton, the melody gained lyrics in 1930, added by Irish songwriter Jimmy Kennedy. The song has since become a children’s classic.
Are there any notable collections of teddy bears?
Yes, Jackie Miley from the U.S. holds the world record for the largest collection of teddy bears, totaling 8,026.
How do different cultures celebrate Teddy Bear Picnic Day?
While the day is popular in the U.S., Canada, and Australia, some European countries also partake, often organizing community picnics and events centered around children and their teddy bears.
What is the significance of the teddy bear in popular culture?
Beyond toys, teddy bears have featured in songs, films, and literature, symbolizing comfort and childhood innocence.
Are there any myths associated with teddy bears?
A common myth is that teddy bears were invented solely in the U.S. In reality, similar stuffed bears were developed simultaneously in Germany by Richard Steiff.
What are some creative ways to celebrate Teddy Bear Picnic Day?
Families can host themed picnics, complete with teddy bear-shaped foods, storytelling sessions, and games, fostering imagination and bonding.
How has the design of teddy bears evolved over time?
Early teddy bears had longer snouts and were more bear-like. Modern designs feature shorter faces and softer materials, enhancing their cuddly appeal.
Is there a term for someone who collects teddy bears?
Yes, such a person is called an ‘arctophile,’ derived from ‘arcto,’ meaning bear, and ‘phile,’ meaning lover.
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