Play Matters is a community built around meaningful play. We bring people together and create experiences that foster connection, learning, and wellbeing.
Where we start from
Play Matters was born in 2026 in Cluj-Napoca, out of people who believe play deserves to be taken seriously. Our conviction is simple:
Play is not a break from life. It’s how we grow.
The city already has tables, games and curious people; we’re building the place that brings them together.
We’re at the very beginning of the road – and we rather like beginnings: everything is still to build, and there’s a seat at the table for anyone who wants to build it with us.
.
What we believe
- Play is learning. Not a break from learning – learning itself, with dice on the table.
- Mistakes are part of the game. The courage to try, lose, laugh and start again is how we grow.
- We grow through curiosity. We learn best when we laugh, collaborate and connect – at any age.
- Safe spaces for ideas. Places where ideas can be tested like moves in a game, without fear of judgement.
- The same table for everyone. Age, background or means never decide who gets a seat.
Now · In preparation
Now
Building the community, running workshops and organizing our first game nights.
In preparation
Play Matters Fest – first edition, planned at Zbor Hub Cluj, with funding from Cluj County Council.
Play Matters Academy – workshops for young people, with funding from Cluj County Council.
Who we are
We’re players, facilitators and organisers – a small team from Cluj that believes the city deserves more tables with laughter around them. The best place to meet us is exactly where we belong: at a table. Come to the first event and we’ll introduce ourselves.
Alongside us
- Zbor Hub Cluj – the partner venue where we’re planning our events.
- Cluj County Council – funder of our two 2026 projects.
Identity
PLAY MATTERS Association · National NGO Register no. 368/A/2026 · Cluj-Napoca, Romania