In 2026, it will be exactly 100 years since Winnie-the-Pooh by A.A. Milne was published. A century later, children and adults alike still instantly recognize the red shirt, the honey pot, and the friends from the Hundred Acre Wood. But why does this gentle bear remain standing in a world that keeps spinning faster?
Disney celebrates 100 years of Winnie the Pooh.
Why are we celebrating specifically in 2026?
The first stories about the bear appeared earlier, but the book Winnie-the-Pooh, written by A.A. Milne and illustrated by E.H. Shepard, was published in 1926. That’s why Disney officially marks the centenary in 2026 with new stories, publications, and anniversary products.
Pooh himself didn’t start as a movie star but as Christopher Robin Milne’s teddy bear. The real toy bear was originally named Edward Bear. His new name combined “Winnie,” a bear Christopher Robin knew at London Zoo, with “Pooh,” the name of a swan. The original Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, Eeyore, and Kanga are now preserved in the New York Public Library. Rabbit and Owl existed only in Milne and Shepard’s imagination.
A hero who doesn’t have to run anywhere
That might be Winnie the Pooh’s secret. He doesn’t save a universe or try to outdo anyone. He looks for honey, makes mistakes, and stays with his friends when times are tough. Tigger is exuberant, Eeyore is gloomy, Piglet is hesitant, and Rabbit wants to organize everything. None of them need to change to belong to the group.
Our own FANS observation: in a time full of speed and achievements, Pooh feels almost rebellious. His greatest talent is paying attention to the small things. A walk, a snack, and a friend by your side are already an adventure for him. Maybe that’s why he appeals not only to children but also to adults who occasionally want to return to a quieter part of themselves.
Why we at FANS remain fans
In our store, grandparents, parents, and children often pause at the same Pooh figurine, but for different reasons. One remembers a book, another a Disney movie, and a child just sees a funny bear. Few characters so naturally bridge generations.
Pooh is also warm without being overly sweet. His stories aren’t about perfect friendship but about different characters who keep seeking each other out. That makes him still surprisingly human after a hundred years.
The anniversary piece: Rainbow Edition, limited to 1,000 pieces
The centerpiece of our anniversary selection is the Winnie the Pooh 100th Anniversary Rainbow Figurine by Grand Jester Studios. There are only 1,000 numbered copies worldwide.
The transparent rainbow finish changes with the light, while the red shirt and honeycomb base with the “100 Years” plaque keep the design instantly recognizable. The figurine is 25 cm tall, made of polyresin, and comes in a premium gift box. Expected delivery: July 2026.
Why do we find this figurine special? It doesn’t try to make Pooh older or grander. It lets a familiar figure shine differently each time. That fits perfectly with a character who can mean something different at every age: adventure as a child, friendship as a youth, and peace or memory as an adult.
Small bag, big surprise: the popular Pooh Blind Bag
Not every collector immediately looks for a large anniversary figurine. The Disney Gran Jester Winnie the Pooh Blind Bag is therefore a delightful entry point. For €4.50, you get a sealed bag with a random mini-figure of Pooh or one of his friends. Not knowing whether you’ll get Pooh, Piglet, Tigger, or someone else is half the fun.
We notice in the store that these blind bags are hugely popular: they’re affordable, fun to give as gifts, and dangerously tempting to grab “just one more.” The figures are made of plastic and suitable from age three.
Eeyore in black and gold: the Midas Edition by Disney Britto
For those who like Pooh a bit more modern, there is the Eeyore Midas Figurine by Disney Britto. Romero Britto gives the well-known, somewhat gloomy character a striking makeover in black, white, and metallic gold. The contrast works surprisingly well: Eeyore remains instantly recognizable, but the figurine also feels like a small pop-art object.
The officially licensed figurine is hand-painted, finished with a glossy lacquer, and measures 14 × 12 × 10 cm. It comes in a luxury Disney Britto gift box and currently costs €99.99. A strong choice for those looking for a striking Pooh collectible without immediately going for the limited Rainbow Edition.
Even more Pooh for different collections
Those who love artisanal details can choose Disney Traditions by Jim Shore, including the anniversary figurine with Pooh and his friends or the compact Personality Pose. For a more modern, bright effect, there is the yellow and red Disney Facets figure. And those who mainly want to capture the togetherness of Pooh and Christopher Robin will also find an atmospheric Funko Pop! Moment.
Prices and availability may change. Therefore, check the current full Winnie the Pooh collection at FANS or come see the figurines in our store on Kammenstraat in Antwerp.
From a small Blind Bag to a numbered anniversary figurine: discover the full Winnie the Pooh collection at FANS.
Sources: historical information verified using The Walt Disney Company and The New York Public Library. Product information and prices verified at FANS Geek Store on July 24, 2026.