The annual Teddy Bear Day in downtown Glendale turns 20 next month.

The free event in the Catlin Court retail district supports the Glendale fire and police departments’ efforts with their Trauma Teddy Program, which raises teddy bears to comfort local children in stressful situations when first responders answer calls. More than 13,000 bears have been provided to the Trauma Teddy Program over Teddy Bear Day’s 20 years.

This year’s edition goes from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14 in Historic Downtown Glendale. The day features make-and-take arts and crafts and bear-themed activities and treats throughout the Catlin Court and Old Towne Districts.

Visit the Arizona Information Center Booth, located at Memory Lane Trinkets and Treasures at 5836 W. Palmaire Ave., to find an event map. Kids can also visit with Charlie the Bear from 10 a.m. to noon.

An event shuttle, sponsored by Interstate Packaging Group, Inc., will travel throughout downtown from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Locally-owned boutique stores, specialty shops and eateries will also feature special offers, artisan pop ups, and hands-on activities (some have a nominal fee) including decorating a chocolate bear at Cerreta Candy Company, and Arizona Search Dogs demonstrations at Bears & More.

In addition, Glendale Fire Department and Glendale Police Department vehicles will be on display in the Catlin Court retail district.

Bears & More, at 7146 N. 58th Drive, will be selling safety-approved teddy bears for $15. The bears will be donated directly to the Glendale Fire Department, Glendale Police Department, local emergency rooms and the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office.

“An important part of the event is the charity drive to benefit the Trauma Teddy Program,” Valerie Burner, owner of Bears & More and event founder, shared in a press release.

Visit visitdowntownglendale.com or call 623-299-2060.

(Photo provided by Historic Downtown Glendale Merchants Association)