National Play Outside Day

National Play Outside Day is a monthly celebration that takes place on the first Saturday of every month. It was created to encourage people of all ages to step away from screens and enjoy outdoor activities with friends and family. The day promotes physical activity, imagination, and connecting with nature, aiming to establish healthy outdoor play habits.

Quick Facts

When is it?: First Saturday of every month
Tagged as: Family activity, Outdoor recreation
What’s the hashtag?: #PlayOutsideDay
When was it founded?: 2011
Who founded it?: Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda D. Abeyta

History of National Play Outside Day

National Play Outside Day was established in 2011 by Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda D. Abeyta after discussions with friends about how children had become preoccupied with digital devices. They noticed that kids were increasingly choosing indoor digital entertainment over outdoor play. Concerned about the effects of increased screen time on children’s physical and mental wellbeing, they created this monthly observance to highlight the importance of outdoor activities and their benefits.

Timeline

1900s: American cities become densely populated, limiting access for playing outdoors
Early 1900s: America introduces the first ‘sand garden’ for children to play in, inspired by German children
Early 1900s: The Playground Association of America is formed to build and support outdoor recreational activities
Mid-1900s: The outdoors is recognized as an ideal place for children to learn new things
2011: Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda D. Abeyta plan and celebrate the first National Play Outside Day
2019: Studies conclude that spending at least 120 minutes a week outdoors is great for health and wellbeing

Dates by Next Year (2025 to 2030)

Year	Month and Date	Day
2025	January 4	Saturday
2026	January 3	Saturday
2027	January 2	Saturday
2028	January 1	Saturday
2029	January 6	Saturday
2030	January 5	Saturday

Observed

National Play Outside Day is observed by families, schools, communities, and organizations across the country. People celebrate by engaging in various outdoor activities like hiking, playing sports, having picnics, exploring nature, or simply enjoying games in the backyard or local park. The celebration encourages everyone to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the natural world around them.

Fun Facts About National Play Outside Day

The day occurs 12 times a year, giving people monthly opportunities to establish outdoor play habits.
A 2019 study concluded that spending at least 120 minutes a week in nature is associated with good health and wellbeing.
The founders created this day specifically to combat the rise in digital device usage among children.
There are no scheduled events or activities required – participants simply go outside and do something fun.
The day encourages participation from all age groups, including kids, parents, adults, and grandparents.

Quiz

When is National Play Outside Day celebrated?
Who founded National Play Outside Day?
What year was National Play Outside Day established?
What is the main purpose of National Play Outside Day?
How many times is National Play Outside Day celebrated each year?

(Answers: 1. First Saturday of every month 2. Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda D. Abeyta 3. 2011 4. To encourage outdoor play and reduce screen time 5. Twelve times)

FAQs

Q: Why do we need a holiday to play outside?
A: With the rise of digital entertainment and busy schedules, outdoor play has declined. This monthly observance serves as a reminder to prioritize outdoor activities for physical and mental wellbeing.

Q: What activities can we do on National Play Outside Day?
A: Any outdoor activity counts! Options include hiking, biking, playing sports, having picnics, exploring nature, building forts, jumping in puddles, flying kites, or simply playing traditional games like tag or hopscotch.

Q: Is National Play Outside Day only for children?
A: No, it’s for everyone! While it was initially created with children in mind, people of all ages are encouraged to participate and enjoy the benefits of outdoor activities.

Q: Is it weather-dependent?
A: No, it’s celebrated in all seasons with appropriate clothing and activities.

Q: Are there official events?
A: No, it’s about spontaneous outdoor play and activities.

Q: Can adults participate?
A: Yes, it’s designed for all ages.

Importance of National Play Outside Day

National Play Outside Day plays a crucial role in promoting physical health and mental wellbeing. Regular outdoor play helps strengthen immunity, muscles, and bones while reducing the risk of obesity, Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and other health issues. For children, outdoor play develops self-confidence, independence, problem-solving skills, and social abilities. It encourages creativity and imagination in ways that digital entertainment cannot replicate. By establishing this monthly tradition, families can create lasting memories while developing lifelong healthy habits.