Nick Sets ‘Worldwide Day of Play’

Nickelodeon will go dark from noon-3 p.m. (EST/PST) Saturday, Oct. 2, as part of its “Worldwide Day of Play.”

The Day of Play is the network’s initiative -- along with partners Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the National PTA -- to promote active and healthy lifestyles.

Thousands of kids worldwide are scheduled to participate, including almost 650 local groups, clubs and schools across all 50 U.S. states.

There will also be city-sponsored game days and festivals in Chicago, St. Louis, Tampa, Fla., and Phoenix; events in India, Australia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Singapore; and a live TV event at 8 p.m. (EST/PST) featuring celebrities and personalities including Hilary Duff and Romeo.

"Worldwide Day of Play is Nickelodeon's effort to elevate the importance of physical, active play as an essential part of kids' lives," executive vice president of public affairs Marva Smalls said in a prepared statement.

Nickelodeon Television president Cyma Zarghami added, “We see the Worldwide Day of Play as a way to empower kids around the world to learn about active, positive lifestyles and to make better, healthier choices.”