Explore, Build, & Play: Bring Your Child to Work Day Is Back

by Jackie Dolopei
March 3, 2026

Categories: Events,

Mark your calendars! The Navy Yard’s annual Bring Your Child to Work Day returns on Thursday, April 23, from 9:30 AM – 2:00 PM, on the Marine Parade Grounds, giving kids plenty of space to run, build, create, and explore. From interactive workshops to high-energy activities, the day is designed to spark curiosity and give kids a hands-on look at the community their parents are a part of every day.

Open Drop-In Activities (All Day)

The morning will be packed with open, drop-in activities:

  • Petting Zoo: Get up close with friendly farm animals
  • Inflatable Games & Lawn Games: Burn of some competitive energy!
  • Philly Fire Truck Tour: Climb aboard and explore a real fire truck.
  • Photo Booth: Capture the memories with fun photos from the day.

These activities will run throughout the day so families can explore at their own pace.

Hands-on Workshops: 10:00 AM -12:00 PM

Children can sign up for engaging workshops designed to inspire creativity and discovery. Space is limited and registration is required.

  • Gardening Workshop: Learn how things grow and plant something to take home.
  • Apiary Workshop: Discover the fascinating world of bees and pollination.
  • City Building with Snapology: Design and build an imaginative city.
  • Kid Yoga: Move, stretch, and recharge in a fun, guided session.

Food Trucks on Site: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM

While lunch will not be provided, our Lunch Truck Lineup will be at the Marine Parade Grounds with some of Philly’s favorite food trucks with options available for purchase. Families are welcome to enjoy lunch here or at some other eateries on campus. Find options here.

Afternoon Activities: 1:00 – 2:00 PM

Every year, Hanwha Philly Shipyard comes to show kids the engineering of building a ship by using aluminum foil and coins. This is where creativity and strategy takes place. This activity is always a fan-favorite, you don’t want to miss out!

Registration Details

Registration deadline is Tuesday, April 14. To help us plan and ensure a great experience for everyone, advance registration is required for all children attending.

During registration from 9:30-10:00, you will:

  • Receive a wristband for drop-in and registered activities
  • Swag (while supplies last)
  • Review event guidelines and waivers

For questions, please contact: Jackie Dolopei, jdolopei@pidcphila.com.

We look forward to hosting you and your your next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and big dreamers.

Registertoday to reserve your child’s spot

Spots for workshops are limited and registration is required — reserve your child’s place today. Deadline is April 14.


Header Photo & Page Photo Credits: Brianna Spause & Quynh Nguyen for PIDC