Day of Play Returns to Downtown Grand Rapids with Free Family Fun hosted by the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

The Grand Rapids Children’s Museum (GRCM) will host its 8th Annual Day of Play Celebration, offering FREE admission and transforming downtown into a celebration of hands-on play. Families can enjoy museum exhibits, outdoor activities, live entertainment, interactive community partner booths, art projects, face painting, bubble performers, a foam party, and more.

WHEN:

Sunday, July 26, 2026

11:00 am – 4:00 pm

WHERE:

Grand Rapids Children’s Museum

11 Sheldon Ave NE

Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Indoor activities throughout the museum and outdoor festivities on Rainbow Road.

Event Highlights

• FREE admission for all visitors

• Access to museum exhibits, including Aim High: Soaring with the Tuskegee Airmen featuring Black Wings: American Dreams in Flight

• Activities from more than 30 community partners

• Food trucks with food available for purchase

• Sensory-friendly cool down space for families

• Giveaways and family activities throughout the day

• Hundreds of families enjoying free museum admission

• Strolling Bubble Fairies (11:00 am–2:00 pm)

• Face painting and hands-on art activities

• Children creating with paint, crafts, and interactive exhibits

• Live drumming performances

• Community organizations leading engaging activities

• Artist Dorelle Henri creating alongside families

• Mascot appearances

• Foam Party on the Rainbow Road (3:00–4:00 pm) — the day’s biggest visual opportunity

WHO:

Families from across West Michigan, community organizations, local artists, and Grand Rapids Children’s Museum staff.

WHY:

Inspired by a proclamation from former Mayor Rosalynn Bliss, GRCM’s Day of Play Celebration celebrates the importance of play in children’s healthy development while providing an accessible, free day of family fun for the community.