With the Firemen’s Parade and Autumn Glory festivities bringing big crowds and lots of noise to downtown Oakland, Play Out Loud is opening its doors as a quiet respite space for families who need a break from the excitement.
The indoor play center and children’s museum will be open Thursday, October 8, from 5 to 8 p.m., the night of the Firemen’s Parade. Families with children who have sensory needs are welcome to come inside to take a break from the noise and crowds, or to watch the parade from inside the play center.
There’s no admission charge for families using Play Out Loud as a respite space during the parade, and you don’t have to be a Play Out Loud patron to use it. If your family decides to stay and enjoy the play center after your break, regular Autumn Glory Weekend admission applies.
Inside, families will find sensory headphones to use in the center, a private, comfortable area for nursing mothers, a pediatric special-needs changing table designed for older children and smaller adults who may need changing assistance, and a comfortable indoor space away from the crowds where you can watch the parade.
“Whether you come in to watch the parade, feed or change your child, or simply need a few quiet minutes away from the excitement, our doors are open to you,” Play Out Loud shared.
Autumn Glory Weekend admission at Play Out Loud is $5 per person on Thursday from 5 to 8 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free on Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. during the downtown Fall Fest, made possible by Play Out Loud’s nonprofit, Fostering Imagination. Admission is good for the entire day with a stamped hand.
