Summer of Play launched

17 June 2021

A bumper programme of free activities across Aberdeen was launched today by the city council to give kids a summer to remember.

From football to swimming, music to dancing, arts and crafts to science experiments, kayaking to nature walks -- Summer of Play offers something for everyone.

The £418,000 programme, approved by the council's Education Operational Delivery earlier this month, was shaped by feedback from families about the fun things they most missed during the Covid 19 lockdown.

Many of the activities will be community based, with a particular focus on regeneration areas as well as supporting families on low incomes, children and young people who have additional support needs, and care experienced young people and young carers.

Education Operational Delivery Convener, Councillor M. Taqueer Malik (above), said: "Aberdeen City Council is working with partners to make this a summer to remember for all the right reasons.

"The programme will help youngsters reconnect with friends in ways they haven't been able to for a long time and because the programme is free, everyone can enjoy what our great city has to offer.

"Staff like our Countryside Rangers, who will be running activities, are equally excited about the months ahead!"

Sport Aberdeen, which operates the city's leisure venues, will be supporting the programme with a wide range of sport and adventure activities.

Managing Director Alistair Robertson said: "This is a fantastic initiative and we are delighted to be offering a huge programme of free activities for youngsters across the city.

"The benefits of sport, activity and safe social interaction have never been more important for both physical and mental health, and it will be great to see kids getting back to having fun with friends in the summer holidays."

Further information on the programme of events and details on bookable activities.

Keep up to date on events on our social media and follow #abdnsummerofplay.