Worldwide Day of Play is on Saturday, September 26!
The Association of Children’s Museums, Nickelodeon, and UNICEF have partnered to create the Worldwide Day of Play celebration – a day that champions joyful learning through play. Join the celebration at Southern California Children’s Museum on Saturday, September 26, 2026. Playtime runs 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m., last entry at 3:30 p.m. Admission is free, no registration needed.
Expect water tables from Pump and Splash, bubbles to chase and pop, a Paw Patrol obstacle course, the Boots the Monkey Banana Toss, and kinetic sensory bins full of Ruff Ruff Rescue dinos.
Here are some tips to maximize the fun:
- Dress for the weather — and for real play.
Water tables, bubbles, and an obstacle course mean hands, clothes, and shoes will get used. Comfortable, active clothing works best, and a change of clothes in the car is never a bad idea. - Plan your parking before you leave home.
Our parking lot will be closed to make room for expanded activities. We recommend street parking or the nearby city lot. Construction on Colorado is also underway, so give yourself extra time to travel and park. - Call ahead to check capacity.
Free admission days draw a crowd, and we do reach capacity. A quick call before you head over tells you whether to come now or come a little later. - Look for a blue apron.
Need a restroom, a quiet corner, a first aid kit, or just directions to the bubbles? Any staff member in a blue apron can help!
One more tip: we offer stroller parking, but the floor is easier to navigate without one. Unless you’re bringing an infant, consider leaving the stroller in the car.
We can’t wait to play with you!
