National American Teddy Bear Day

National American Teddy Bear Day is observed every year on November 14 in the United States. The holiday celebrates teddy bears, comforting stuffed toys that have remained popular with children and collectors for generations. The day also recognizes the unusual story connecting the toy’s name with U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt.

History of National American Teddy Bear Day

The teddy bear received its name after an incident during a hunting trip attended by President Theodore Roosevelt in Mississippi in 1902. Roosevelt refused to shoot a bear that had been captured and tied up because he considered the situation unsporting.

Political cartoonist Clifford Berryman depicted the incident in a widely circulated cartoon. Inspired by the story, Brooklyn shop owners Morris and Rose Michtom created a stuffed bear and displayed it in their store. They reportedly received Roosevelt’s permission to call it “Teddy’s bear.”

Around the same time, German toy maker Margarete Steiff and her nephew Richard Steiff developed a jointed stuffed bear in Germany. These American and German designs helped establish the teddy bear as one of the world’s most recognizable toys.

Interesting Facts About National American Teddy Bear Day

• The teddy bear was named after Theodore Roosevelt, whose nickname was Teddy.
• Morris and Rose Michtom created one of the earliest American teddy bears.
• Richard Steiff designed an early jointed bear based on sketches of bears at a zoo.
• The melody for “The Teddy Bears’ Picnic” was composed by John Walter Bratton in 1907.
• Teddy bears are collected by both children and adults.
• Some historic and limited-edition teddy bears have sold for extremely high prices at auction.
• Teddy bears are often used as symbols of comfort and are sometimes donated to children during emergencies.

How to Take Part in National American Teddy Bear Day

Celebrate National American Teddy Bear Day by displaying a favorite teddy bear, adding a new one to a collection, or giving one to someone special. You can also learn about Theodore Roosevelt and the history of the toy, visit a teddy bear museum or exhibition, or donate a new stuffed bear to a reputable children’s charity that accepts them.

When Is National American Teddy Bear Day in 2026?

National American Teddy Bear Day is observed on November 14 each year.

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