30th annual Teddy Bears' Picnic takes over Assiniboine Park
Purchases throughout day go toward research, equipment, programs at Children's Hospital in Winnipeg
Friendly bears took over Assiniboine Park Sunday as Winnipeg families celebrated the 30th annual Teddy Bears' Picnic.
The day began with a pancake breakfast, with CBC Manitoba radio hosts Marcy Markusa and Trevor Dineen flipping flapjacks for those in attendance.
There are more than 50 booths on site with Winnipeg health professionals showing kids the ins and outs of health care.
"The kids get an opportunity in a non-threatening environment to experience a little bit of what goes on in the hospital," said John Myers, who has volunteered with the event for nearly 30 years.
More than 2,000 volunteers pitched in this year to help make the picnic possible.
"We're really proud of all the people who come out every year to help out," Myers said.
CBC meteorologist John Sauder and television host Marjorie Dowhos are emceeing events at the Lyric Stage, with musical acts such as Al Simmons and magician Chris Funk taking over entertainment duties throughout the day.
A shuttle bus, new this year, will leave from 820 Taylor Ave. every 20 minutes throughout the course of the day.
Food and merchandise purchases throughout the day go toward research, equipment and programs at the Children's Hospital.
The picnic wraps up at 5 p.m.
With files from Erin Brohman