teddy bear picnic tradition.

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I was recently reminded of a tradition my siblings and I cherished growing up. Every summer, we’d pack up and head to our family cabin, nestled in the aspen-filled woods. Those summers were full of adventure—riding horses, exploring trails with our cousins, and soaking in the beauty of the outdoors. But among all the adventures, one tradition started by my Grannie always stood out: the Teddy Bear Picnic.

Grannie was an elementary teacher and had a gift for storytelling. She often read to us, but there was something extra special about the day she pulled out The Teddy Bears’ Picnic. We’d each choose a beloved teddy (or any stuffed animal within reach), gather close as she read, and then head out to the woods for our very own picnic. With our bears propped beside us on the blanket, we shared sandwiches, candy, and plenty of giggles.

For years, I looked forward to that little ritual. Even as I grew older, I’d still sneak back to join when Grannie hosted it for the younger cousins. It was such a simple thing, but it made the summer feel magical.

Now, as my siblings and I have children of our own, the tradition has lived on. Watching my kids choose their teddy and carry it proudly to the blanket feels like stepping back into my own childhood. What was once Grannie’s gift to us has become a gift to the next generation.

It amazes me how something so simple—just a story, a stuffed friend, and a picnic blanket—can weave such lasting memories. The Teddy Bear Picnic reminds me that magic isn’t found in the grand or elaborate, but in the quiet traditions we hold close and pass down with love.

✨ Here’s to teddy bears, to picnics, and to the traditions that shape our families in the sweetest ways.

How to Host Your Own Teddy Bear Picnic

What You’ll Need:

A favorite teddy bear (or any stuffed friend) for each child

A copy of The Teddy Bears’ Picnic (or another favorite story)

A blanket for the grass (or even the living room floor on rainy days)

Simple picnic basket with food—sandwiches, fruit, and a treat

How to Do It:

Have each child choose their teddy or stuffed animal to bring along.

Snuggle up and read The Teddy Bears’ Picnic together.

Pack a simple picnic basket with kid-friendly favorites.

Spread out a blanket outdoors (or indoors if needed).

Let the kids set a spot for their teddy, then enjoy food, giggles, and imaginative play.

*Tip: Make it a yearly tradition—it’s simple, memorable, and full of childhood magic.

I hope if you do this with your own kids, it brings as much delight as it did with me!

Here’s to finding a little whimsy in the ordinary.