Join us on 5th August to celebrate Playday!
Wednesday 5 August 2026 is Playday, the national day for play. Celebrated across the UK each year, Playday calls on families, community leaders, play providers, childcare settings, and everyone working with children and young people to promote and champion the importance of play.
We are delighted to announce that the theme for this year’s Playday is…
Play – here, there, everywhere
This year’s theme highlights the importance of creating opportunities for children to play wherever they are. Play happens here, there and everywhere, from living rooms to school gates, to streets, parks, and neighbourhoods. It’s a part of children’s everyday life, and has a monumental impact on their happiness, health, and wellbeing. When children are supported to play in these everyday spaces, we help nurture positive outcomes, and create communities where children can thrive.
This Playday, we’re calling for all children to have access to:
- playful moments. Small moments of play, at home and out and about, throughout the day can make a big difference to children’s everyday lives.
- everyday adventures. Play doesn’t need to involve expensive activities, costly toys, or trips to far-off destinations, the simplest and free ideas are often the most fun.
- play their way around their neighbourhood. Making everyday journeys, to school, nursery, shops or the park, more playful and child-friendly can be enjoyable for all.
- inclusive and welcoming environments. Spaces and places where children of all ages and abilities feel they belong, will make a real difference to their enjoyment of play.
All children and teenagers have the right to time, space and freedom to play – here, there and everywhere. This Playday, we are encouraging families, community leaders, play providers, childcare settings, and everyone working with children and teenagers, to champion better spaces and opportunities for play, helping to create a more playful world where children can grow and thrive.
For the latest updates on this year’s campaign follow us on Facebook and get involved using the hashtags #Playday2026 and #PlayEverywhere.
Playday is coordinated by Play Scotland, Play England, Play Wales, and PlayBoard Northern Ireland.
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