25th Annual Teddy Bears' Picnic

Calling all teddies great and small, it's time to celebrate the 25th Annual Teddy Bears' Picnic on Sunday 22 February at Rippon Lea House and Gardens, with the National Trust Victoria holding Australia's biggest dress up party for kids and their furry friends to mark the anniversary.

The first ever Teddy Bears Picnic took place in 1991 and saw a celebration of hundreds of kids and their cuddly companions. Now in its 25th year, the much loved Teddy Bears' Picnic is the Trust's longest running and most popular event.

With over 4,000 teddies and owners flocking to Rippon Lea each year, National Trust of Australia (Victoria) Chief Executive Officer Martin Purslow says they expect the 25th Anniversary to be no exception to previous years.

'Since 1991, over 100,000 visitors have brought over 37,000 bears to the Teddy Bears' Picnic," Martin said.

'Over the last 25 years we have attempted to break the Guinness World Record for the largest teddy bears picnic ever held and have hosted Australia's Biggest Treasure Hunt," said Martin.

'This is a day for adults and kids to spark their imagination, adults to reflect on time spent with their favourite bear while watching their kids create the same memories on the grounds of Rippon Lea," concluded Martin.

The day includes prizes for best dressed kids and best dressed teddies, roving entertainment, performances, treasure hunts and plenty of fun activities to keep kids and bears busy for hours.

National Trust Victoria's Boutique Site Operations Manager Sherredan Nuthall said the Teddy Bears' Picnic is a great way for families to relax, enjoy a day out together and take part in the biggest dress up party in Australia.

'We encourage kids can join in on the celebration by dressing up with their teddy bears in matching costumes, whether it's a favourite superhero, prince or princess, cartoon character or magical creature," said Sherredan.

The 25th Annual Teddy Bears' Picnic runs from 10.00am - 4.00pm. Rippon Lea House and Gardens is located at 192 Hotham St, Elsternwick.