Care Bears is kicking off the countdown to its 45th anniversary with a holiday celebration in New York City. This Saturday, Nov. 7, six Care Bears characters will appear at Rockefeller Center’s Meet the Tree Holiday Workshop, marking the brand’s largest character appearance at a single event. The same day, a dedicated Care Bears Christmas Shop will open at the FAO Schwarz flagship, where it will remain through Jan. 10, 2027.
The Holiday Workshop features activities centered on care, kindness, and community. Families can share Christmas wishes at The Caring Tree, write holiday letters, take festive photos, and make keepsakes at the Care-A-Lot Craft Corner, including friendship bracelets, bag charms, and holiday ornaments. Guests can collect stamps in a Care-A-Lot Passport as they explore the activities. Additional giveaways and holiday surprises are be available at the Top of the Rock Observation Deck.
The Care Bears Christmas Shop at FAO Schwarz features products from 12 licensing partners, including Aurora, The Woobles, Kurt Adler, ZURU, Londontown, Goliath, TinBox, Overlord, Pop Mart, Bakery Bling, Pipsticks, and Birdie Bean. The assortment includes plush, collectible figures, holiday ornaments, craft kits, accessories, and matching family sleepwear.
“For nearly 45 years, Care Bears has reminded generations that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a meaningful difference,” shares Kristeen Tibbits, Vice President of Entertainment Marketing at Authentic Brands Group, owner of the Care Bears brand. “As we look ahead to this milestone anniversary, we’re bringing that message to life in bigger, more imaginative ways. There’s no better place to begin than Rockefeller Center during the holidays, where we can bring families together, create lasting memories, and invite a new generation to experience the magic of Care-A-Lot.”
The shop features two FAO Schwarz holiday exclusives: Rainbow High Dolls x Care Bears and Care Bears Hyojo collectibles. Both are scheduled for wider retail launches in early 2027. Care Bears will also appear in the retailer’s holiday windows.
“FAO Schwarz is such an iconic part of the New York holiday experience, and we’re excited to bring Care Bears into that tradition,” explains Amy Sullivan, VP of Retail Development, Licensing & Entertainment at Authentic Brands Group. “The Beary Merry Care Bears Christmas Shop at FAO Schwarz brings together an incredible group of licensing partners, exclusive collaborations, and products that appeal to both longtime fans and a new generation. It’s a wonderful opportunity to showcase the breadth of the Care Bears brand and create a destination where families can discover, shop, and celebrate together.”
The New York City celebration is an early look at the brand’s plans for its 45th anniversary in 2027. Additional activity will include the return of the Care Bear Cousins from the Forest of Feelings and collaborations with other characters and brands.
The Meet the Tree Holiday Workshop is Nov. 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. EST at 1 Rockefeller Plaza. The Care Bears Christmas Shop is open Nov. 7, 2026, through Jan. 10, 2027, at FAO Schwarz, 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
Plan your visit at faoschwarz.com.
