Babar, the beloved star of the classic children’s brand that has won over generations of families worldwide, is turning 80! As as a kick-off to his 80th anniversary celebration in the U.S., the iconic elephant character with the instantly recognizable signature green suit and gold crown is packing his trunk for America—and, from appearances at Saks Fifth Avenue to Books of Wonder and beyond, the U.S. is rolling out the green carpet for Babar’s arrival.
Babar at Saks Fifth Avenue
Throughout November, a dedicated Babar boutique will take center-stage within the children’s department in the flagship New York City location of Saks Fifth Avenue, and 21 other Saks locations nationwide. The boutiques will feature a range of exclusive new high-end products that bring the charm of the original Babar books to life. In addition, Babar will get a starring role in the retailer’s famous New York City holiday windows – to include a life-size Babar plush exclusively available at Saks – and a full-page presence in the annual Christmas catalog.
Babar at Books of Wonder
For those visiting in New York City throughout the holidays, be sure to make this a stop on your itinerary!
New York’s largest independent bookstore will be transformed into “Babar Central” this holiday season to celebrate Babar’s birthday in a variety of ways. Just some of the planned festivities include special store windows dedicated to Babar and his 80th birthday and an auction of rare Babar silkscreened prints with proceeds to benefit Reading Is Fundamental.
Babar (is Back!) at Retail
As part of all the 80th birthday activity, the look and feel of the vintage Babar brand will be showcased in a range of new products set to launch at specialty toy and book stores nationwide this holiday season. From top-quality board books and games to beautifully-designed puzzles, plush and pajamas, the upscale collection of Babar products will mark the beloved brand’s widespread reemergence at retail after more than ten years, paving the way for a whole new generation of fans and allowing those who grew up with Babar to share the magic of the regal yet relatable character and his imaginative adventures with their own young charges.
