Rupert Bear and The Beaney prepare for a magical joint birthday celebration

Since Rupert missed his centenary celebrations in 2020, Canterbury’s best-dressed bear will share his belated birthday bash with The Beaney’s big 10 year anniversary. 

The Beaney is delighted to invite Rupert fans of all ages to enjoy this interactive exhibition looking back over his 102-year legacy, featuring the museum’s extensive collection of Rupert Bear objects and artwork. 

Visitors will have the chance to be immersed in magical seasonal landscapes, enjoy a tale in Story Corner, play interactive games, learn all about Rupert’s Canterbury-born creator, and see never-displayed-before artwork and collections.

Rupert Bear Activity Boxes will also be available for those wanting even more creative fun. 

Boxes will be £5 each and packed with creative activities like crafting a kite decoration, writing a rhyming Rupert story, making origami animals, growing your own sunflowers and creating a paper lantern.

The Rupert Bear Centenary Celebration opens in The Beaney’s Special Exhibition Gallery on Saturday 20 August until Sunday 30 October 2022 (closed Mondays).

Admission is free, with a suggested £3 donation per visitor.

Cllr Barbara Anne Flack, Cabinet Member for Place which includes responsibility for museums and culture, said: “We are thrilled Rupert is finally getting to celebrate his momentous 100 year birthday alongside The Beaney’s own incredible milestone. 

“Telling Canterbury’s story to engage audiences and inspire pride in our city’s rich heritage is something The Beaney has championed since reopening in 2012 and the Rupert Bear Centenary exhibition feels like the perfect way to celebrate this.”