Playday 2026

A celebration of children’s right to play & a campaign to highlight the importance of play in children’s lives.

Playday is the national day for play, celebrated each year across the UK on the first Wednesday in August.
Playday 2026 will be celebrated on Wednesday 5 August.

Playday 2026:
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.

#Playday2026
#PlayEverywhere.

Find out more about Playday

Playday is coordinated by Play England, Play Wales, Play Scotland and PlayBoard Northern Ireland.

Muddy Faces are Playday Champions!

We are very proud to support Playday and to have been recognised as PlayDay Champions!

Find out more here.