Build-a-Bear is every little kid’s mecca, rivaling the likes of Chuck E. Cheese. Just a glimpse of the store’s sign can start a chorus of “Pleeeeease oh pleeeeeease can we go in?”
One day last year, though, the place morphed from paradise to disaster zone. The company held its first ever “Pay Your Age” event and, well, it was not a success. They apparently did not expect the gobs of crowds that caused lines several hours long. Halfway through the event, they shut it all down. Which went over very well with those still waiting with already cranky kids, as you might imagine.
But Build-a-Bear is determined to salvage the event this year with a sweepstakes-style giveaway. This time, parents can enter ahead of time—between now and June 16—to win a voucher that will allow their child to purchase and stuff a furry friend for the price of their age during the event. So a three-year-old could stuff away for $3, a five-year-old for $5, and so on. That’s a pretty good deal, considering the animals range in price from about $12 to $60.
Build-a-Bear’s website says that more than 200,000 vouchers will be given away worldwide. You’ll also be entered to win one of 10 birthday party packages the company is giving away.
More things to know:
Kids can stuff any furry friend with this offer except stuffed animals from the store’s Pokémon and How to Train Your Dragon collections.
One ticket is good for up to two people to make a friend; both people must be present.
If you score a ticket, it will be valid either June 24 through June 26 or June 26 through June 28. The exact valid dates of each ticket are printed on the ticket and are good for that period only.
You still have to pay full price for accessories.
Don’t worry, though. If you don’t get selected for the event—or you’re still recovering from last year’s fiasco—there is another option:
You’ll still be a hero and with some strategic online supply-shopping, you won’t even have to leave the comfort of your own home.
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