All Photos By Gail

Nestled in the heart of Altadena, California, the Bunny Museum stood as a whimsical sanctuary dedicated to the celebration of all things rabbit. A beloved institution, it wasn’t just a museum; it was a home, a labor of love, and a testament to the boundless joy that collecting and cherishing can bring. Tragically, this haven was reduced to ashes in the recent LA wildfires — specifically the Eaton Canyon Fire, which wiped out much of Altadena — leaving behind only memories of its unparalleled charm and the countless smiles it inspired. I was lucky to have visited this wonderful collection with my sister on Christmas Eve day while in California for the holidays. I can’t believe it’s gone.

The Bunny Museum was Labyrinthine. This is Just One Hallway.

Bunny Clocks

A Wonderland of Rabbits

Founded by married couple Candace Frazee and Steve Lubanski in 1998, the Bunny Museum held the Guinness World Record for the largest collection of bunny-related items. Its halls brimmed with over 60,000 artifacts, of which only 20 items were saved.  The bunny rabbit collection ranged from vintage figurines and plush toys to contemporary art pieces, 10 Rose Parade float bunnies, furniture and antiquities (meaning items 2,000 years old), plus everything in between.

Visitors were greeted by a mix of delight and awe as they wandered through rooms overflowing with bunny-themed treasures, each piece meticulously displayed and lovingly curated.

Bunny Themed Children’s Bedroom

The museum wasn’t just about objects; it was imbued with personality. Candace and Steve often welcomed visitors personally, sharing the story of how their collection began as a playful exchange of bunny gifts between them. Over the years, this mutual passion blossomed into a public treasure, with the museum becoming a cherished part of the Altadena community.

Roger Rabbit Collectibles

A Gathering Place for Joy

The Bunny Museum was more than a repository of artifacts. It was a space where people of all ages could revel in the joy of whimsy. Children marveled at the life-sized bunny statues, while adults reminisced about cherished memories evoked by the vintage collectibles. The museum hosted events, welcomed school groups, and provided a unique escape from the ordinary.

Wall to Wall Plush Bunnies

For many, the highlight of a visit was the live bunnies that roamed the premises. These gentle, fluffy ambassadors brought a living, breathing connection to the museum’s theme, adding an extra layer of warmth to the experience.

A Heartbreaking Loss

The devastating Eaton Canyon Fire swept through Altadena, taking with it not just a building and irreplaceable collection, but a piece of the community’s heart. The loss of the Bunny Museum is felt deeply by all who visited, volunteered, or supported its mission. It’s a reminder of the fragility of the things we hold dear and the importance of preserving our shared cultural landmarks.

Honoring the Legacy

As we mourn the loss of the Bunny Museum, let us also celebrate the joy it brought to countless lives. It reminded us of the value of passion, the magic of collecting, and the power of sharing what we love with the world. For those who had the privilege of visiting, the museum’s spirit will live on in their memories, in photos taken within its playful walls, and in the stories they share.

Candace and Steve’s dedication to their dream created something extraordinary — a place where whimsy reigned and where bunnies, in all their forms, were cherished. As the Altadena community begins to heal, we hope their vision will inspire others to carry forward the spirit of joy and creativity that the Bunny Museum so uniquely embodied.

Rabbit Greeting Cards Collection

How We Can Help

In the wake of this tragedy, efforts are underway to support Candace and Steve as they rebuild their lives. Donations, shared memories, and messages of support can make a meaningful difference. Let us come together to honor their legacy and ensure that the story of the Bunny Museum continues to inspire. Please visit their GoFundMe page to make a donation and leave messages of support for Candace and Steve.

The Bunny Museum may no longer stand, but its spirit will forever live in our hearts.

The Museum had an Entire Room Dedicated to Their Vast Bugs Bunny Collection

Bunny Teapots

Bunny Dish Towels and Potholders