Spreading Joy, Peace, and Compassion Across the Globe

For 27 years, Play for Peace has kindled joy, peace, and compassion in communities around the world. This year’s anniversary celebration — themed IGNITE — brought together our global family to honor the journey, celebrate the impact, and look ahead to a future of connection through play.

As the virtual event began, excitement filled the digital space. Faces appeared from every corner of the world — facilitators, volunteers, youth, partners, and friends — all united by one mission: to keep the Play for Peace flame burning bright. Executive Director Sarah Gough opened the celebration with a heartfelt story, reminding everyone that the spark of Play for Peace began with one simple idea — that play has the power to heal and unite even in times of conflict.

Kalaimagal Play for Peace Club

The celebration came alive through stories that showcased this truth. From Sri Lanka, the children of the Kalaimagal Play for Peace Club shared laughter, gratitude, and a beautiful song , a living example of how play can restore hope and belonging. Across the globe, the Play for Peace Netherlands team shared their own moving story of resilience and connection, showing how the spirit of play continues to bridge divides and strengthen communities.

Moments of inspiration and reflection filled the event. Michael Tarrine, co-founder of Play for Peace, shared a powerful message on “Igniting Peace,” followed by a collective Moment of Silence in observance of the International Day of Peace. It was a quiet yet profound reminder of why this community exists, to spread compassion in a world that needs it most.

The evening also carried a deep sense of gratitude. Together, we honored Craig Dobkin, the visionary founder whose belief in the transformative power of play sparked a global movement 27 years ago. As his image appeared on the screen, words of remembrance and appreciation echoed through the event — a tribute to the heart behind Play for Peace.

Throughout the celebration, videos and visuals illuminated a year full of connection and growth. The “Firefly Moments” highlight reel, designed by Caryl, took participants on a joyful journey through global milestones from local play sessions to leadership trainings and new collaborations. Among these achievements was the exciting launch of the Play for Peace Portal, a new online community that will connect members worldwide. The goal? To grow this space to 500 members, each one a torchbearer of peace.

The energy of the event was not only reflective but deeply interactive. Facilitator Marilyn led participants in playful moments and small-group circles that brought warmth and laughter to every screen. Whether through a simple game, a smile, or a shared story, these moments reminded everyone that peace begins in connection, one human to another.

As the event drew to a close, gratitude filled the virtual room. Sarah and the team expressed heartfelt thanks to the volunteers, donors, and partners who make this global work possible and to Kikori, a valued partner helping bring the power of play to life.

Together, participants celebrated how far the movement has come and how bright its future still shines.

IGNITE: A Continuing Journey

The 27th Anniversary wasn’t just a look back, it was a spark for what’s next. With renewed energy and shared purpose, the Play for Peace community looks forward to expanding its reach, deepening its impact, and continuing to ignite joy, peace, and compassion around the world.

✨ If you missed the celebration or want to relive the joy, you can watch the full recording here: Rewatch Here