By Beth David, Editor
Teddy Bears large and small and all manner of stuffed animals invaded the center of Fairhaven in a friendly takeover that included clowns, face painting, bubbles, and lots of giggles.
The 41st annual Teddy Bear Parade, which actually celebrates the end of the summer reading program, started and ended at the corner of Walnut and Center Streets, with activities on the lawn of the Unitarian Church on 8/15/26.
Daisy D. Dots and her contingent of clowns painted faces, performed a few tricks and otherwise kept the event as festive as possible.
“Norman Rockwell would love this event,” said Lee as she watched the parade pass along Union Street.
And it did seem very Rockwell-sh, with sunny skies, warm temperatures, low humidity, and a refreshing breeze.
Young Griffin and Connor were enjoying their first Teddy Bear Parade.
“Everybody is having a blast,” said mom Michelle.
The event has been around long enough that parents who went as children are now taking their children. Some have traveled from afar, including New York and Calfornia.
The parade is sponsored by the Millicent Library. Learn more at www.millicentlibrary.org
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- Daisy D. Dots leads the way along Union Street in the center of Fairhaven with Teddy and the other clowns at the 41st annual Teddy Bear Parade on 8/15/26, which celebrates the end of the summer reading program. Photo by Beth David.
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- Elllie Diaz Sullivan is mesmerized by the magic of silk fans during festivities after the 41st annual Teddy Bear Parade in the center of Fairhaven on 8/15/26, which celebrates the end of the summer reading program. Photo by Beth David.
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- Spectators watch closely as a roving clown demonstrates the cup-and-ball game (yeah, that’s a toilet plunger) after the 41st annual Teddy Bear Parade in the center of Fairhaven on 8/15/26, which celebrates the end of the summer reading program. Photo by Beth David.
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- L-R: Griffin, Michelle, Connor, and Dave pose for a photo after the 41st annual Teddy Bear Parade in the center of Fairhaven on 8/15/26, which celebrates the end of the summer reading program. Photo by Beth David.
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- Andrew Durrigan makes a huge bubble during festivities after the 41st annual Teddy Bear Parade in the center of Fairhaven on 8/15/26, which celebrates the end of the summer reading program. Photo by Beth David.
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- Young Avery is delighted after she bursts a huge bubble, while twin sister, Olivia reaches for the next one during festivities after the 41st annual Teddy Bear Parade in the center of Fairhaven on 8/15/26, which celebrates the end of the summer reading program. Photo by Beth David.
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Click here to download the 8/20/26 issue: 08-20-26 TeddyBear
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