Edinburgh’s Grassmarket will be transformed into a giant children’s play area tomorrow (Wednesday 30 July) to promote play in the city.
The enclosed street in the Old Town will be transformed from 12.30pm, with family-friendly activities on offer including junk drumming, giant weaving, magic potions, a giant sand pit, water play, and a cardboard city.
The City of Edinburgh Council event hopes to build on the successes of previous years where thousands of people have joined in with Playday, a national day for play.
Councillor Keith Robson, Play Champion for the City of Edinburgh Council, said: “Play is a massively important part of a child’s development and makes a tremendous contribution to happy and healthy childhoods. Our very popular Playday in the Grassmarket provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate play and promote its many benefits.
"One of our objectives is that we want to ensure that communities recognise the importance of play for children especially outdoor play. Not only are there significant health benefits from being out in the open air, but also exposure to a range of different activities can help a child’s development.
"Here in Edinburgh we're very lucky to have some fantastic outdoor spaces and I would encourage all parents to get outdoors with their children during these lovely summer months. The great park at west end of Princes Street Gardens has been a family favourite these holidays when friends have been visiting from around the UK."
Access to the Grassmarket Playday event is free but children should be accompanied by an adult.