Bring a teddy bear and get in free at Space Farms

Sussex — The Space Family will celebrate teddy bears with a special day for kids of all ages on Saturday, Aug. 22. Any child that brings a teddy bear will receive free admission to Space Farms Zoo and Museum when accompanied by an adult. A toy manufacturer designed the first “Teddy” bear after President Teddy Roosevelt refused to shoot a bear cub tied to a tree. Roosevelt’s sportsmanship was celebrated with the creation of a stuffed toy bear for children. Roosevelt was a conservationist and responsible for the formation of Yellowstone National Park, the wilderness home of many protected grizzly bears. He is a personal hero of Fred Space, co-owner of the zoo and museum complex with his son Parker. Space Farms is home to Kodiak bears, Syrian grizzly bears, Himalayan bears and Hokkaido bears. Last spring the Hokkaido bears at Space Farms produced three cubs. The cubs have been entertaining the visitors with their antics: frolicking in the grass, splashing in their natural pond, climbing trees and “wrasslin.” At 2 p.m. on Teddy Bear Day, Rich Westcott of Magic by Westcraft will perform a magic act, A Teddy Bear Picnic. Following the performance, a history of the teddy bear will be presented and a Teddy Bear Contest held. Space Farms is located at 218 Route 519 in Sussex and is open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. until Oct. 31. Admission is $13.50 per adult, $12.50 per senior and $9 per child. Family season passes and group rates are available. For more information call 973-875-5800 or visit wwwspacefarms.com.