Join us for the 7th Annual “Day of Play” Celebration on July 28, 2024. This community outreach initiative began with a proclamation by Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss, and is designed to encourage children and families to celebrate PLAY! This year, we are closing the street to bring play outside on the Rainbow Road! A dedicated group of community partners will offer creative, interactive experiences for visitors, including yard games, crafts, and bubbles! Plus, the museum will be open for play with FREE admission.
This event is free and open to the public! Join us!
view photos from the event
Photography by Julie Balgavy Photography
Thank you to our Day of Play partners!
Organization | Activity |
|---|---|
Bricks & Minifigs Grand Rapids | FREE Lego® Mini Build |
Family Futures | Sensory based activity (would welcome suggestions, if there is a need for something "different"!) |
GR Symphony | Straw Pan Flute |
Grand Rapids Art Museum | Art Project |
Grand Rapids Ballet | costume try on and take home craft |
Grand Rapids Ballet | costume try on and take home craft |
Grand Rapids Children's Museum | Bubbles |
Grand Rapids Fire Department | GRFD Information Table, Assortment of Kid Friendly Items (pencils, stickers, etc.), and Freddie the Firetruck for interaction with the crowd. |
Grand Rapids Gold | Day of Play Celebration |
Grand Rapids Public Library | Craft-TBD |
Great Start to Quality - Kent ISD | Not sure yet! |
Head Start for Kent County | Table and Giveaways |
Hispanic Center of Western Michigan | Sharing Hispanic Center information/programs |
John Ball Zoo | Matching game, coloring sheets & stickers |
Kona Ice Of West Grand Rapids | Corn Hole Board |
Main Event | Basketball, Connect Four, Bowling |
Michigan Education Trust | Arts and Crafts |
Read GR | Free Books and Bookmark Craft |
THE PLAYGROUNDgr | Rock decorating! |
United Parcel Service (UPS) | UPS truck, games, free stuff! |
Vibrant Futures | Sidewalk chalk |
i understand | Positivity notes |
i understand | Pink Heart Positivty notes |
details for the perfect playdate
Will the museum be open for play during the Day of Play Celebration on July 28?
The museum will be open on Sunday, July 28 from 11am-4pm with FREE admission.
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 museum with food and drink for purchase. Numerous restaurants and vendors are also available within walking distance.
What types of activities are offered and for what ages?
We'll be updating this page 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 to elementary aged children.
How do I sign up to be a Day of Play sponsor?
If your business wishes to sponsor the event, please contact Ryan Huizenga at rhuizenga@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 our Volunteer Department at volunteer@grcm.org
Where do I park?
There are several parking lots available within walking distance to the museum. View the Downtown Visitor Mobility and Parking Guide here.
Bus: We are within two blocks of the #1, #4, #6, #13, #14 and #15 buses. The closest bus stop is at the corner of Sheldon/Fulton and services the #4, #14, and #15. You can also park & ride the DASH to the museum! Here is more information about the DASH.
City parking: Here is a map of parking lots and ramps downtown:
Street parking is available on a first come, first served basis. There is a fee payable by meter, although parking is free on Sundays. The meters take quarters, nickels, and dimes. We have a change machine in our lobby if needed. You can also use the MOTU app. Here is a guide for MOTU.
Please be aware that there is construction taking place in the downtown area.
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