Celebrate 100 years of Winnie-the-Pooh with us at the Teddy Bears’ Picnic

Join us for a bear-y fun day of family activities, story time, a scavenger hunt, and more!

Winnie-the-Pooh books on display at a library

This year marks 100 years since the first collection of Winnie-the-Pooh stories was published on October 14, 1926.

Join us at the Teddy Bears’ Picnic as we celebrate this milestone and Winnipeg’s connection to the real bear that inspired the famous name.

Stop by our tent for some bear-sized fun, including:

  • Face painting
  • Family story times
  • Photos with Winnie
  • A scavenger hunt for young adventurers
  • More activities and special treats

Date: Sunday, September 27, 2026
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Assiniboine Park, 55 Pavilion Cres.

Winnie’s Winnipeg connection

Did you know that the beloved Winnie-the-Pooh stories began with a real black bear with a special connection to Winnipeg?

In 1914, during the First World War, Canadian Army veterinarian Lieutenant Harry Colebourn was travelling overseas from his home in Winnipeg. Along the way, he acquired a young black bear cub and named her Winnie, a tribute to his hometown.

Winnie became his travel companion and a beloved mascot of the Fort Garry Horse regiment.

As the war continued, Harry’s unit was sent to France, and London Zoo took Winnie in. She became a popular attraction, including with a young boy named Christopher Robin Milne.

Christopher Robin loved Winnie so much that he named his teddy bear “Winnie-the-Pooh.” His father, author A. A. Milne, was so inspired by his son’s love for the bear that he created the stories of Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends in the Hundred Acre Wood.

Winnie and Lieut. Harry Colebourn at Salisbury Plains, England, December 1914.
Winnie and Lieut. Harry Colebourn at Salisbury Plains, England, December 1914. Source: City of Winnipeg Archives, Parks and Recreation photograph collection.

Join Winnie’s scavenger hunt

Do you have a young adventurer who loves a good puzzle? Pick up a scavenger hunt sheet at our tent and follow the clues as they lead you through the park.

Pooh’s adventures start with a clue,

On Sunday, we want to go on an adventure with you.

City staff love reading and games,

Find the tent with the Winnipeg name.

Put on your thinking cap, keep your eyes open, and take photos of what you discover along the way.

The first 50 finishers will earn a special commemorative prize.

Want to share your adventure? Tag us in your photos on social media:

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