When is Children in Need 2024? Schedule for BBC's annual Pudsey Day appeal
The highly anticipated 44th BBC Children in Need telethon is just around the corner. The funds raised will be distributed to local charities and groups that provide assistance to children and young people throughout the UK.
Often called Pudsey Bear Day, this yearly event raises millions of pounds for important causes throughout the country.
Last year, the event generated an impressive £33.5 million, and the organizers are aiming to collect even more funds this year.
Once again, famous personalities will face their own challenges while hosting this year's telethon, motivating the audience to contribute to the charity.
Originally introduced in 1985 as the iconic mascot for the event, Pudsey Bear will be seen throughout the country during fundraising activities and on television.
Now that some of the dates and the schedule have been established, here’s what we have learned about Children in Need 2024 up to this point.
The Children in Need telethon will be broadcast live on BBC One and iPlayer starting at 7 PM on Friday, November 15.
You can also watch it later on iPlayer. The program will highlight various fundraising challenges that both local communities and celebrities are participating in to gather donations. Additionally, it will share the uplifting stories of young individuals who benefit from Children in Need.
Who Will Host Children In Need This Year?
Following his participation in an ultramarathon last year, Vernon Kay is set to be part of the presenting team for the BBC Children in Need live telethon in 2024.
Hosts for Children in Need 2024
You can also look forward to seeing various celebrities popping up in video clips or making short appearances to motivate people to donate.
Pudsey Bear: Who Is He?
Pudsey Bear has represented Children in Need since 1985. The bear was designed by Joanna Lane, a BBC designer, and was named after a town in West Yorkshire.
This year marks the 39th anniversary of the yellow bear's birth.
The mascot quickly became popular and has continued to represent the yearly event ever since.
As we prepare for Children in Need 2024, Pudsey will be touring the nation, visiting various organizations and events.
What Is Strictly Come Dancing?
Since Children in Need is organized by the BBC, many of its programs are participating to assist in fundraising efforts.
Strictly is hosting a contest where one fortunate winner will receive two tickets to the grand finale of Strictly Come Dancing on Saturday, December 14, at Elstree Studios. The prize also includes a special VIP backstage experience on the spin-off show It Takes Two, along with a two-night hotel stay that features spa treatments, meals, and travel arrangements.
Celebrities Taking On New Challenges
Following Kay's ultramarathon from the previous year, Paddy McGuinness is embarking on a significant physical fundraising challenge.
McGuinness's epic endurance cycling challenge kicked off during the Radio 2 Breakfast Show on Monday, November 11. His fellow BBC Radio 2 colleague, Kay, has been openly cheering him on throughout his journey.
You can keep up with his journey and request tickets to attend a special event with Zoe Ball in Glasgow at the finish line, using the Paddy tracker.
The charity established by Sir Tom Hunter, the Scottish businessman and entrepreneur, is doubling the contributions for Paddy’s fundraising effort.
What Song Did Girls Aloud Sing For Children In Need?
This year's edition will include lead vocals from original band member Sarah Harding, who sadly passed away from breast cancer in 2021. These vocals were found earlier this year while the band was compiling archival material for their arena tour.
The song titled "I’ll Stand By You – Sarah’s Version" made its debut at the start of November on The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2.
The sales from the single will support BBC Children in Need initiatives that assist young people in communities throughout the UK who are dealing with various difficulties, including programs dedicated to helping children with cancer.
A Delight For Doctor Who Fans
Fans of the enduring BBC show Doctor Who will get the opportunity to bid on the 15th version of the Time Lord during a special auction at this year's Children in Need event.
Additionally, Ncuti Gatwa, who plays Doctor Who, will be unveiling a special sneak peek of the show's forthcoming Christmas episode.
What's Going On?
In another part of the Children in Need initiative, The One Show and BBC Radio 2 have joined forces to bring back the Challenge Squad. This group consists of four remarkable young individuals who have gained support through BBC Children in Need funding.
They are collaborating with well-known figures like Alex Jones and Roman Kemp, among others who will be revealed soon, to inspire more individuals to participate in fundraising efforts.
Countryfile is hosting its tenth walking event this year in Derbyshire. If you aren't from the area, you can still plan your own walk to support Children in Need.
As we get closer to Children in Need, expect additional events and challenges to be revealed, along with some exciting surprises during the evening.
