This autumn, the City of Tallinn invited residents to join them for an afternoon of play at the recently redeveloped Vormsi Green Area, part of GoGreenRoutes. Such redevelopments demonstrate how “nature-based solutions” and urban greening initiatives can improve urban residents' physical and mental well-being and strengthen their connection to nature.

Vormsi Green Area is situated on the border of the Lasnamäe and Pirita districts, with a diverse population of nearby residents. Most of the area is covered by urban wilderness, making it an ideal public space for co-designing a new recreational area with local residents. This collaboration aims to increase social interactions within the community and reduce stress levels.

The event was co-hosted by the City of Tallinn and A Playful City, a not-for-profit organisation working to create more playful, healthy, and inclusive spaces for everyone. The event emphasises movement and play as a component of well-being and social connection across generations. 

On the day, there were many activities for young and old alike, including traditional games from various European countries and a nature scavenger hunt. Passers-by and families playing at the nearby playground were drawn in by the colourful triangle displays and games, curious to learn more about the event. Visitors participated in international games such as Kubb (Swedish), Boules (French), and Mölkky (Finnish). There was also plenty of free play with skipping ropes, footballs, and pavement chalk. The Tallinn municipality kindly provided tea, coffee, and treats for visitors to enjoy.

Children also took part in a nature scavenger hunt, finding different colours and faces in the natural elements of the space. Over the course of the event, more than 70 children and 40 adults joined A Playful City and Tallinn City. Attendees had an opportunity to learn more about the GoGreenRoutes project in Tallinn and the five other European cities it has collaborated with.

All in all, the event brought together residents of all ages and backgrounds to celebrate nature in the city and find joy in play and movement.

Stay tuned for the outcomes of future Playful City collaborations.