Vicker’s Park hosted its first smoke-free Teddy Bear’s Picnic

Teddy bears and thousands of children had their picnic Tuesday and, for the first time, it was smoke free.

The 28th annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic filled Vicker’s Park with smiling children, picnic blankets and stuffed animals Tuesday afternoon. City festival co-ordinator Kayla Berst said she was expecting more than 3,000 people and by 1 p.m., the south side park looked to match that estimate.

Despite a gloomy sky, parents and children alike packed the park.

"I’ve seen a lot of teddy bear’s around too," Berst said.

While the picnic featured regular activities, like face-painting and mini-putt, it was the first year the event featured a smoke-free setting. Berst said the city decided to make it a smoke-free picnic after it was approached by the Thunder Bay District Health Unit.

"I think it’s been taken very well by the community," said Berst.

The free event also featured the always popular boo-boo bear station where kids can bandage up their stuffed pals. Berst said it’s always one of the busiest booths.

"You just want to fix them right up and it gives kids the chance to have their own little hospital.”

Emily Ackinson, 10, brought her hippo hip-hop to the park as part of a summer camp with the Thunder Bay Museum. With a walk and lunch already taken care of, Ackinson said she was looking forward to visiting the CKPR booth next because she likes that radio station.

"I’m having lots of fun," Ackinson said. "I like all the booths that are out here."

Eight-year-old Hunter Kelly said after having a nap and listening to live music from performers like Rodney Brown, he wanted to hit the bouncy castle. Kelly didn’t have a stuffed friend with him because they’re either too big or too small for the park he said.

"All my stuffies are special to me," Kelly said.

Along with all of the other activities, children and parents also took part in the teddy bear parade around the park.