Smallscreen News

First Lady Michelle Obama on Nickelodeon's 8th annual Worldwide Day of Play

By April MacIntyre Sep 25, 2011, 13:41 GMT

09/09/2011 - Michelle Obama - First Lady Michelle Obama © Janet Mayer / PR Photos

First Lady Michelle Obama made a surprise visit at Nickelodeon’s annual Worldwide Day of Play (WWDOP) event, held for the first time ever this year in Washington, D.C., on the Ellipse.

Nickelodeon estimates that upwards of 50,000 kids and families joined together for a full day of fun, entertainment and activities—with participation from more than 25 of Nick’s live-action stars, SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer and superstar athletes such as LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony and Chris Paul. Nickelodeon’s WWDOP is the network’s flagship celebration of active play, encouraging kids to get up, get out and go play.

Joining the world-class athletes at this year’s celebration were more than 25 of Nickelodeon’s most popular stars and animated characters, including casts of iCarly, Victorious, Supah Ninjas, Bucket & Skinner’s Epic Adventures and How to Rock, along with Big Time Rush, Keke Palmer, the Fresh Beat Band, SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer.

Additionally, the United State Senate passed a resolution Friday officially designating Saturday, Sept. 24, as the Worldwide Day of Play.

The resolution (H.Res 410) was introduced by Senator Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) and Senator Kelly Ayotte (R-NH).  The U.S. House of Representatives also introduced Sept. 24 as the Worldwide Day of Play in a resolution sponsored by Congresswoman Marcia L. Fudge (D-OH) and co-sponsored by Congressman Pat Tiberi (R-OH) and Congressman Ron Kind (D-WI). These resolutions are an acknowledgement of Nickelodeon’s efforts to underscore the importance of health and wellness to the nation’s –and the world’s – kids and families.