Play It Forward 2026

Play It Forward is a 21+ event happening at SPARK on Thursday, August 6, beginning at 5:30 PM.
Step right up and join us Under the Big Top for SPARK's annual Play It Forward celebration—a one-of-a-kind carnival-inspired evening supporting the Children's Museum of Rochester.
This signature event sells out every year, and this year's celebration is shaping up to be our biggest yet! Enjoy an unforgettable night of fun, food, and friendly competition, including:
Carnival games and activities throughout the museum and SPARK Park
Delicious eats from local favorites SMOAK, Heimstead, Taco Lab, and Flapdoodles
A full cash bar from Charlie's Eatery & Pub
Hundreds of chances to win gift cards and prizes from local businesses
And plenty of surprises along the way!
The evening will be emceed by a local voice, Troy Dunken of 106.9 KROC!
Attire: Wear your best red, black, or white and get ready for a night of fun with purpose.
Doors Open: 5:30 PM
Tickets: Admission includes food from all participating food trucks. Beverage and game tickets will be available for purchase during the event.
Presented by Mayo Clinic, Think Mutual Bank, and Custom Alarm.
Every ticket purchased helps support Play For All, SPARK's community access program. Through Play For All, families experiencing financial barriers can visit the museum through discounted admission, free family nights, library and community passes, and other access initiatives. Your support also helps us create engaging, hands-on learning experiences that meet children where they are, encouraging curiosity, creativity, confidence, and a lifelong love of learning through play.
Together, we're making sure every child has a place to play, learn, discover, and belong.