Free Family Fun Returns to Downtown Grand Rapids for the 8th Annual Day of Play

Looking for a fun, free way to spend a summer Sunday with the family? The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum is bringing its popular Day of Play Celebration back to downtown Grand Rapids on Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Now in its eighth year, Day of Play transforms the museum and surrounding Rainbow Road into a lively celebration of creativity, movement, imagination, and hands-on learning. Admission to the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum will be completely free throughout the event.

A Full Day of Activities

Families can explore the museum’s exhibits while also enjoying outdoor activities, live entertainment, art projects, face painting, interactive booths, giveaways, and activities presented by more than 30 community partners.

Visitors can look forward to:

  • Strolling Bubble Fairies from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

  • Face painting and hands-on art projects

  • Live drumming performances

  • Mascot appearances

  • Community organizations offering interactive activities

  • Artist Dorelle Henri creating alongside families

  • Food trucks with items available for purchase

  • A sensory-friendly cool-down space

  • A foam party on Rainbow Road from 3 to 4 p.m.

The foam party will close out the celebration and promises to be one of the biggest and most memorable moments of the day.

Explore the Museum for Free

Free admission includes access to the museum’s exhibits, including Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen, featuring Black Wings: American Dreams in Flight.

Throughout the museum, children will be able to paint, build, experiment, create, move, and learn through play.

Why Play Matters

Inspired by a proclamation from former Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss, the Day of Play Celebration recognizes the important role play has in children’s healthy development.

The event also ensures that families from across West Michigan can enjoy an accessible day of learning, creativity, and connection at no cost.

Event Details

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum Day of Play Celebration
Sunday, July 26, 2026
11 a.m.–4 p.m.

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum
11 Sheldon Avenue NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Activities will take place throughout the museum and outdoors on Rainbow Road.

Families are encouraged to make a day of it by enjoying the event and visiting the many locally owned restaurants, shops, and businesses throughout downtown Grand Rapids and the nearby West Side.

For additional information, contact Megan Geiken, director of marketing and events for the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum, at 616-802-0521 or mgeiken@grcm.org.

Jessica Slaydon