The first Teddy Bear Parade was held on May 16th, 1998. 

The purpose of the Teddy Bear Parade has never changed. The mission has always been honor first responders and to encourage the donation of stuffed animals to the emergency services of Clackamas County (Local Law Enforcement, Fire Departments, Women’s Shelters, Emergency Rooms, and other Crisis Centers). The stuffed animals are given to comfort children in crisis situations.