Glendale’s historic downtown will turn decidedly fuzzy on Saturday, Sept. 12, when the 22nd annual Teddy Bear Day returns with a full slate of family-friendly activities. The free event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. across the Catlin Court and Old Towne districts, inviting visitors to spend the day with crafts, treats and plenty of bear‑themed fun.
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Guests can start at the Arizona Information Center Booth at 5836 W. Palmaire Ave., where they’ll pick up an event map, activity sheet, and commemorative sticker. Charlie the Bear, a crowd favorite, will be back to greet families from 10 a.m. to noon.
A shuttle sponsored by the Historic Downtown Glendale Merchants Association will circulate through the district, making it easy to explore boutique shops, eateries, artisan pop‑ups, and hands‑on activities. Highlights include decorating a chocolate bear at Cerreta Candy Company, crafting a bear ornament at Velma Teague Library, and watching Arizona Search Dogs demonstrations at Bears & More. Visitors can also add a special Teddy Bear charm to the Downtown Charm Bracelet, enjoy face painting, and catch appearances by Lightning McQueen and Jackson Storm from Pixar’s Cars. Glendale Fire and Police Department vehicles will be on display in Catlin Court as well.
A central part of the celebration is the annual charity drive supporting the Trauma Teddy Program. Bears & More, located at 7146 N. 58th Dr., will sell safety‑approved teddy bears for $12, with each bear donated directly to Glendale Fire and Police, local emergency rooms, and the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office. These bears are given to children experiencing traumatic situations, offering comfort while first responders provide care. Since Teddy Bear Day began, nearly 17,000 bears have been donated.
