As the festive season draws near, the timeless allure of “The Cinnamon Bear” beckons once more. This cherished old-time radio Christmas series has captivated audiences for generations, and this year, I am eager to share its magic with families everywhere. My hope is to encourage both the young and the young at heart to come together and revel in these enchanting broadcasts.
For me, the enchantment of Christmas has always been intertwined with the adventures of “The Cinnamon Bear.” Growing up, a local Portland radio station would air a fifteen-minute episode each evening in the lead-up to Christmas, immersing listeners in the whimsical journey of Judy and Jimmy. Their quest through the fantastical realm of Maybeland to recover the missing Silver Star for their Christmas tree was a spellbinding adventure filled with wonder and excitement.
The series is a treasure trove of imaginative characters and magical settings, from the Root Beer Ocean to the Inkaboos, and from the Wintergreen Witch to the Crazy Quilt Dragon. Each episode introduced new surprises and delights, culminating in a heartwarming visit to Santa Claus at the North Pole.
Thanks to the intricacies of copyright law, many old-time radio shows, including “The Cinnamon Bear,” have entered the public domain. This means they are freely accessible for distribution, allowing new generations to experience their magic. While some radio stations continue to air the series annually, all episodes are readily available online for you to download and enjoy at your leisure.
Memorable Episodes
The adventure begins with Judy and Jimmy meeting Paddy O’Cinnamon, the Cinnamon Bear, who reveals that the Silver Star has been whisked away to Maybeland by the Crazy Quilt Dragon. As they set off on their journey, they encounter a delightful array of whimsical characters and challenges.
From narrowly escaping the Inkaboos and the Immense Inkwell to reclaiming the Silver Star from the clutches of Weasley the Wailing Whale and Penelope the Pelican, each episode is packed with thrilling escapades. The children also cross paths with Presto the Magician, Captain Taffy and his Candy Pirates, and the Roly-Poly Policeman, all of whom enrich the story’s vibrant tapestry.
As the series unfolds, Judy and Jimmy confront the crafty Wintergreen Witch and seek guidance from Queen Melissa. Their journey leads them through the Wishing Woods and the Land of Ice and Snow, where they finally meet Santa Claus and Jack Frost, who assists in repairing the Silver Star.
The series reaches its climax with a grand Christmas Parade and a final confrontation with the Bad Dolls and the Wintergreen Witch, culminating in the Silver Star’s triumphant return to its rightful place atop the Christmas tree.
Listening to “The Cinnamon Bear” has become a beloved holiday tradition for countless families. Whether you choose to listen alone or with loved ones, this timeless series offers a delightful escape into a world of fantasy and festivity. So, gather around, perhaps with a cozy blanket and a steaming cup of cocoa, and let the magic of “The Cinnamon Bear” fill your holiday season with joy.
