Hershey Bears to Host 22nd GIANT Teddy Bear Toss, Jan. 7, 2024
The Hershey Bears will host the GIANT Teddy Bear Toss on Sunday, Jan. 7, 2024, at GIANT Center at 3 p.m. Fans are encouraged to bring new or gently used teddy bears and plush toys to the game to be thrown on the ice when the Bears score their first goal. There is no limit on how many teddy bears fans can bring, as each donation helps to bring comfort and a smile to a child in need.
This season’s GIANT Teddy Bear Toss marks the 22nd event in team history. In 2023, Hershey collected a hockey world record of 67,309 plush toys. The club has collected 389,508 plush toys since 2001.
As part of the club's Hershey Bears Cares initiative, which showcases the philanthropic activities and volunteer efforts of Bears players and staff members throughout the community, teddy bears and stuffed animals are collected and donated to more than 30 local organizations, including Catherine Hershey Schools, Vista Autism Services, Harrisburg School District, Cocoa Packs, Hershey Food Bank, Helping the Harrisburg Family, Palmyra Lions Club, Milton Hershey School, and Autism Society Greater Harrisburg Area.
If at least 50,000 plush items are thrown on the ice, the Sweigart Family Foundation will donate $50,000 to Children's Miracle Network Hershey. The Sweigart family has made this pledge since 2016, helping thousands of sick children and their families.
A limited number of tickets for the Teddy Bear Toss Game are currently available, and the game is expected to sell out. For tickets and additional information about the Hershey Bears, please visit HersheyBears.com.
For 86 years, our Hershey Bears hockey club has been thrilling fans on the ice. Off the ice, this storied American Hockey League team has prioritized giving back to the community and connecting with fans. Since 2018, the Hershey Bears Cares charitable initiative has been the platform to highlight the organization’s community outreach and engagement. In a typical season, our players, coaches and staff members participate in dozens of meaningful events and appearances. It is a way for the team to thank the best fans in the league and give back to the community.