Hugglets was formed in 1985 to create traditional teddy bears and toys designed both for children and for a growing number of adult collectors. In 1987, after a two-year foray into teddy bear making, Hugglets published the first edition of the Teddy Bear Guide, which brought together the details of specialist manufacturers, teddy bear retailers and other related businesses. The Guide was an immedi
ate success and grew rapidly along with the market and a new edition has since been published every year at the end of October – coinciding with Teddy Roosevelt’s birthday. In 1989, Hugglets organised the first British Teddy Bear Festival in London, which drew together over two thousand collectors and businesses. The event proved so popular that Hugglets Teddy Bear Festivals have been staged annually ever since. There are currently two events – the Winter BearFest in February and the Teddies Festival in September – both held in London at Kensington Town Hall. The one-day Hugglets Festivals attract around 1,000 eager teddy bear enthusiasts and are an inspiration for beginners as well as for established bear collectors from all around the world. There are some 80 stands at each event selling both new and antique bears. Many of the exhibitors are individual bear makers (known as bear artists) who make bears in their own unique designs and styles. There are always exhibitors from overseas – as far away as Australia, Canada, Japan, South Africa, the USA, and Europe. As many as 10,000 bears and related products are on sale. Prices range from just a few pounds to over £1000. .
