At pop-up adventure playgrounds, we meet children in public spaces, usually alongside their parents and caregivers. Every event offers us a window into their world. Sometimes that means laughter and hope. Other times, it raises conversations about freedom, time or community. Each gathering leaves us with small, memorable moments.
In East Vancouver, we partnered with our new friend, Keeping. At first, he was anxious about whether he had enough materials. “Is this how they normally look?” he asked. We reassured him that every pop-up is different. The children would make it work. Soon, he relaxed and watched families dive into his collection of fridge boxes, curling ribbons and painted tyres.
Originally, Keeping had prepared a registration and waiver system. Yet, once he saw families engaged, he set it aside. No one appeared concerned about risk. Instead, people were immersed in joyful play.
Nearby, a boy turned a tall cardboard box into an outhouse, complete with a crescent window. His mother rolled her eyes and explained, “He says it’s also a castle.” Inside, he had cut a smaller box into place, carefully taped and designed.
Further under the trees, small groups built castles and forts. One girl drew round windows with a purple marker. Her mother suggested squares but we followed the child’s lead. I cut around her wobbly circles and she nodded solemnly.
Another father asked me to cut handles for his son’s box. As we worked, he shared a memory of building with his own father, who often criticised his attempts. “I do not want to be like my father and am careful, he said softly. “I remind myself that this is his own.” Watching his son play, he smiled with quiet pride.
These are the moments that make adventure playgrounds so powerful. They are not just about play, but also about connection across generations.
To explore more of our latest adventures, visit our global pop-ups page. If you’d like to host your own pop-up or need event support, we’d love to hear from you. Contact us to start your journey.
By Morgan