Join us for the 2nd Annual “Day of Play” Celebration. Two years ago, Mayor Rosalynn Bliss declared July 31 as the official day of play for the city of Grand Rapids. We’re celebrating this special day with a free event where children and their families can get outside and play. This event features a collaboration of community partners offering creative, interactive experiences, including games, crafts, and of course, bubbles! Special musical guest Jim Dandy and the Fancy Pants will be performing on the stage. This event is free and open to the public. Join us!
Thank you to our Day of Play partners!
Organization | Activity |
|---|---|
Renew Mama Studio | Kids yoga and sensory activities |
Grand Rapids Drive | Plinko board & Buckets the mascot |
Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative | Sponge art |
Downtown Grand Rapids, Inc | Large outdoor games |
Van Andel Education Institute | Animal meet & greet |
Holland Museum | Invention related activites |
Nelis' Dutch Village | Make your own windmill & shuffleboard |
Learning from Scratch | Upcycled hands-on art |
Furniture City Creamery | Quicksand slime station |
Grand Rapids Art Museum | Collaborative drawing/story-making activity |
Grand Rapids Public Museum | Big Games related to TOYS exhibit |
ArtPrize | ArtPrize/Project 1-themed hands-on activity |
Head Start of Kent County | Musical instruments and Pete the Cat storytime |
Grand Rapids Public Schools | Obstacle course |
Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum | The art of science |
Artists Creating Together | Collaborative piece + make & take |
Kids Food Basket | Brown bag decorating |
Friends of Grand Rapids Parks | Bird feeders or large memory game |
Early Learning Neighborhood Collaborative/Baby Scholars | Ball/Bucket toss or activity book making |
Kingman Museum | Inflatable dinosaur egg balance course |
Urban Institute for Contemporary Arts | Art activity |
Great Start Parent Coalition | Beanbag toss & hopscotch |
Details for the perfect playdate
Where do I park?
There are several parking lots available within walking distance to Rosa Parks Circle. View the Downtown Visitor Mobility and Parking Guide HERE.
What happens if it rains?
This event will happen rain or shine! We’ll have tents and plenty to do should mother nature bring a shower. In the event of severe weather such as thunderstorms, Day of Play will be cancelled. Check our website for the most up-to-date details.
Are food and drink available?
Food trucks will be parked next to the park with food and drink for purchase. Numerous restaurants and vendors are also available within walking distance. Water stations will be set up throughout the park.
What types of activities are offered, and for what ages?
We’ll be updating this webpage weekly with partners and activities. This event is a chance for all families to get outside and celebrate play in our beautiful city. Activities will be most appropriate for preschool and elementary-aged children.
Are there restrooms on site?
The restrooms at Rosa Parks Circle will be open. There will also be a nursing nook and changing table available during the event.
How do I sign up to be a Day of Play sponsor?
If your business wishes to sponsor the event, please contact Bridgette McGee at bmcgee@grcm.org
How do I sign up to be a Day of Play volunteer?
Day of Play could not happen without dedicated volunteers! If you are interested in volunteering please contact Bridgette McGee at bmcgee@grcm.org
Special offers from area businesses
The Dog Pit will offer a special of 1 hot dog (toppings of ketchup, mustard, onion, and pickle), 1 bag of chips and 1 small fountain drink for $3.50 during the Day of Play.
Kilwins will offer a 15% discount on all purchases.
Old World Olive Co. will offer 10% off any oil or vinegar purchased on the day of the event at their Monroe Center location.
Uccello's will offer their Wednesday Kids Eat Free offer. Kids receive a free meal with each adult purchase.
Made possible by:
