Teddy Bear Toss Brings Holiday Cheer And Breaks Records In Portland

December 10, 2024

Today's good news story comes from Portland, Oregon.

Portland’s Veterans Memorial Coliseum was filled with excitement and generosity Sunday night as the Portland Winterhawks hosted their 25th annual Teddy Bear Toss. The event, a beloved holiday tradition, saw a sellout crowd cheering on their junior ice hockey team as they faced the Vancouver Giants.

teddy bear toss hockey game
Portland Winterhawks / Facebook

As the Winterhawks scored their first goal, a sea of 16,973 stuffed animals rained down onto the rink, marking a new record for the event. Fans of all ages participated, filling the ice with teddy bears, plush animals, and holiday spirit.

The toys, collected and sorted after the game, will bring joy to children and families in need this holiday season through various local charities.

BRING ON THE BEARS 🧸

Diego Buttazzoni has scored the Teddy Bear Toss goal! pic.twitter.com/wTVf2tAfOY
— Portland Winterhawks (@pdxwinterhawks) December 9, 2024

The Teddy Bear Toss, now a beloved tradition in Portland, combines sports and community spirit in a way that brings joy to everyone involved.

As the Winterhawks’ players and staff worked to collect the mountain of toys, fans cheered, knowing their contributions would brighten the holidays for many.