Build-A-Bear welcomes the SpongeBob gang

ST. LOUIS — SpongeBob and Patrick are heading to Build-A-Bear Workshop thanks to an agreement between the retailer and Nickelodeon. Beginning Friday, May 17, customers will be able to make their own SpongeBob and Patrick dolls at Build-A-Bear Workshop stores throughout North America and on the retailer’s e-commerce site for $23 apiece.

SpongeBob’s Bikini Bottom friends Sandy Cheeks and Gary the Snail will also be available as pre-stuffed minis for $10 each.

“For the first time ever, Build-A-Bear Workshop Guests can finally take home the underwater fun of SpongeBob SquarePants and his friends,” said Maxine Clark, Build-A-Bear Workshop founder and chief executive bear. “We are excited to be working with Nickelodeon to bring this iconic series and its loveable characters to life at Build-A-Bear Workshop.”

“We are thrilled to bring the amusement and excitement of SpongeBob SquarePants and his friends to Build-A-Bear Workshop stores across the country,” said Manuel Torres, SVP of global toys and electronics for Nickelodeon Consumer Products. “The plush and accessories available will give fans of all ages a whole new way to experience the world of Bikini Bottom."

Build-A-Bear Workshop stores nationwide will be celebrating the arrival of SpongeBob and his pals with a series of special events from May 17 through May 19, and encourages guests to dress up in their favorite SpongeBob-themed apparel. Additionally, guests who purchase a SpongeBob or Patrick plush will receive a free paper pineapple hat.

Build-A-Bear will also carry a variety of clothing and accessories for the make-your-own SpongeBob and Patrick plush dolls, including a pirate costume for SpongeBob ($13.50) and one for Patrick ($12.50), a pineapple house ($12) and a SpongeBob SquarePants song sound chip ($7). SpongeBob pajama pants ($7) and a SpongeBob T-shirt ($7) will also be available and fit any plush doll purchased from the retailer.

SpongeBob SquarePants, which first launched in July 1999, currently ranks as the number-one animated series with kids 2-11, and throughout the past several years, it has averaged more than 100 million total viewers every quarter across all Nickelodeon networks. SpongeBob SquarePants is executive produced by creator Stephen Hillenburg. Paul Tibbitt served as a director and writer on SpongeBob SquarePants for its first three seasons and is currently executive producer.