Playday 2026 - Play Scotland

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.

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.

What can you do? 4 Steps to Support Playday 2026

Sign up to take partFill in our quick form to register so we can keep track of all the amazing events happening across Scotland! We’ll send you an evaluation survey where you can enter a £100 prize draw.

Organise a Playday event

Host your own Playday celebration in your local area! This could be anything from a small gathering in a park to a larger community event. Use our quick start guide to get started.
Spread the word

Share Playday messages on social media. You can find us on Facebook, Instagram, X, Bluesky, and LinkedIn. You can also include Playday in your newsletters or emails to encourage others to get involved.
Join an event near you

Attend a local Playday event on Wednesday 5 August and experience the joy of play first-hand. Bring friends, family, and your community along!

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.