We played! We ate! We met new friends!

Wednesday, June 20th marked the first "official" day of summer! It also marked the debut of Longmont Y's "Play Every Day Outdoors" program!

It was a beautiful summer's evening in Carr Park. Local kids retired from the playground and volunteered to help prepare for the event. After decorating and setting up activity stations, our young helpers bolted home and begged their parents to join the festivities. They did... in DROVES!

Together, families snacked on fresh fruit and vegetables. They played catch, frisbee, and soccer. They hula hooped, jumped rope, and designed family t-shirts. As the evening drew to a close, participants shared ideas for future sessions. Many family members were thrilled by the prospect of sharing food, playing games, and going on occasional excursions!

“I’m having so much fun!” one dad yelled to me as I took his picture. “This is so cool. Why didn’t we think of this?”

In a sense... he did! "Play Every Day Outdoors" is designed by Longmont families, for Longmont families. That means each Wednesday-night event is tailored to meet the unique needs of our Longmont community. Every week, we invite local families to share with us their favorite ways to play. We ask, "in a world without barriers or obstacles, how would you choose to interact with your family and community?" From camping to kick-the-can, parents remember how they used to play as children and recall how important it is to do things as a family.

As for the aforementioned barriers? We remove them.

"Play Every Day Outdoors" is a FREE program. With weekly sessions lasting only 1.5 hours, every family can make time to play. Healthy snacks are provided, giving parents and children the energy they need to have a rollicking good time. And an added bonus: Play is good for mind, body, and soul. What better way to celebrate the summer, embrace your family, and strengthen your community!?

"Play Every Day Outdoors" was devised by The Longmont Y in partnership with Northridge Elementary School. The program is made possible by generous funding from the Northwestern Mutual Foundation. This grant-funded initiative is designed to promote healthy living, outdoor play, and family fun.

Come learn what "Play Every Day Outdoors" is all about! Event are hosted in Carr Park every Wednesday (excluding July 4th) between June 27th and August 15th. Festivities last from 6:30pm to 8:00pm.

Come play with us! I promise you’ll be glad you did, or your money back!