Playday theme 2023

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Playday is the national day for play, celebrated each year across the UK on the first Wednesday in August. Playday 2023 will be celebrated on Wednesday 2 August.

We are delighted to announce that the theme for this year’s Playday is … 

Playing on a shoestring – making every day an adventure.

This year’s theme focuses on the everyday low-cost or no-cost play adventures that children can enjoy at home, in settings, and in our communities.

Play opportunities don’t need to involve expensive activities, costly toys, or trips to far-off destinations. It is often the simplest ideas, the free and found opportunities, which offer the most fun, and are the most developmentally beneficial for children and young people.

  • Play is essential at all ages and stages of childhood, and is particularly important during times of crisis.
  • Play helps children and young people make sense of the world around them, deal with challenges, and build resilience.
  • Play is fun, enabling children and young people to make friends, blow off steam, and cope with stress and anxiety.
  • Play is vital for children and young people’s health, happiness, and skills development including creativity, imagination, and sense of adventure.

Make this Playday, and every day, an adventure!

For the latest updates on this year’s campaign follow us on Facebook and Twitter and get involved using the hashtags #Playday2023 and #PlayingOnAShoestring.

Find out more about Playday

Download Playday 2023 event posters

Register your event

Find an event near you

National organisations – show your support for Playday by becoming a Playday Champion

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