In a massive display of “hugeness,” the City of Waukegan welcomed the world’s largest teddy bear to their shores Saturday morning.
Measuring approximately 63 feet long and weighing 8,000 pounds, Xonita will be on display for the public to view until 4 p.m. on Saturday and from 10 p.m. until 4 p.m. on Sunday at the Waukegan Municipal Beach, 201 East Sea Horse Drive, city officials said.
Parking is free and food trucks will be on-site.
Xonita’s visit was arranged through the City of Waukegan and the Consulate General of México in Chicago, as well as a partnership involving ARCOA Group and Waukegan Computer/One Stop It.
Xonita was crowned as the world’s largest teddy bear by the Guinness World Records in April 2019.
The bear also visited Round Lake Beach last weekend, but her visit had to be cut short last Sunday due to high winds.
The event was supported by Ballet Folklorico Tayahua, Hair Culture, Lake County Cultural Association, LR WINDSOR, State Senator Adriane Johnson, American Place Casino, Chicken Miche, Culver’s, Lake County Sports Center, Lewis Fresh Market, Tacos El Vale, The Pink Cactus, The Quonset Pizza, TownePlace Suites by Mariott and the Waukegan Cares Foundation.
“I am honored to partner with the Consulate General of Mexico in Chicago to host Xonita in Waukegan,” Waukegan Mayor Sam Cunningham said.
“There is no better backdrop for this special visitor to celebrate the vibrant cultural ties between Waukegan and Mexico than the Waukegan Municipal Beach. International friendship defines this partnership,” Cunningham added.
Consul General of Mexico in Chicago Ambassador Reyna Torres Mendivil said, “Xonita represents the creativity, craftsmanship, and heart of the people of Xonacatlán and the State of Mexico. For many members of our Mexican community, this teddy bear is more than a world record, it is a symbol of home, tradition, and the talent of artisans whose work brings joy across generations.”
“We are honored to partner with the City of Waukegan to share this special cultural treasure with families throughout the region and to celebrate the deep friendship and strong ties that unite Mexico, the State of Mexico, and the people of Waukegan,” Mendivil added.