Playday is the national day for play in the UK, a free day of activities for children and young people and traditionally held on the first Wednesday in August.
East Ayrshire’s Playday will take place on Wednesday 5 August 2026 from 11am to 3pm at the Kay Park, Kilmarnock, KA3 7RU.
Playday theme
We are delighted to announce that the theme for this year’s Playday is '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 are 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 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, to champion better spaces and opportunities for play, helping to create a more playful world where children can grow and thrive.
National playday updates
For the latest updates on this year’s campaign follow Playday UK on Facebook.
Share with us on social media
Get involved using the hashtags:
- #Playday2026
- #PlayEverywhere
Look out for information about East Ayrshire's Playday on Ayrshire360 Communities Facebook.