Why Fun Matters: The Role of Play in Strong Communities
Why Play Matters in Building Community
Most people think of rituals as serious, highly structured events—ceremonies, speeches, and long traditions with deep meaning. But what if I told you that play is just as important? Play rituals are moments of joy and shared experience that deepen relationships and strengthen a sense of belonging. When we look at spiritual traditions that have lasted for over a thousand years, they all have one thing in common: they feast together. And feasting is just one example of a play ritual—something done for fun, and with meaning.
What Are Play Rituals?
Play rituals are shared experiences that bring people together with joy, intentional fun and usually laughter. They don’t need to be made formal. They don’t speeches, awards, or bowing. They do require intention.
I’ve worked with nonprofits, corporations, and even spiritual organizations, and I’ve seen this firsthand. If a community forgets to create space for fun, then who wants to return to spend time? Where will relationships with trust and admiration form? I still haven't met the person who wants all gatherings to feel like work all the time.
An Example of a Play Ritual: The Hash House Harriers
Years ago, I was invited to a Hash House Harriers running event. On it's face the group was a running group. At the end of their traditional running game, I was invited to the after game barbecue.
During that meal, members broke into traditional silly songs. They were songs that only those in the community knew. Many were raunchy. All were undignified by intent.
For guests, it was obvious the songs constituted esoteric knowledge—knowledge only regular members could share. This time wasn’t just a meal. It was a celebration of belonging.
The Power of Small, Meaningful Traditions
You don’t need grand ceremonies to create meaningful rituals. After practice pizza parties, hot coco when coming in from the snow, and a paused moment to embrace a sunset can all count.
How to Create a Play Ritual for Your Community
When building a stronger community, play rituals are essential. Here’s how to start:
1. Punctuate the Gathering
Someone stands and acknowledges why you’re together. There is a reason you're with the people you care about so say it out loud. Remind one another why this group in this time matters to you.
2. Reference a Tradition or Wisdom
Tie your gathering to bigger traditions of people like you convening before. Are you continuing a long line of gatherings in your sport, field or faith? Are you honoring the people who came before you and made your own group possible? Is there older wisdom appropriate to revisit in the time you are convening? Sharing answers to these questions may make your own gathering feel more important and meaningful.
3. Invite Participation
Rituals should include interactive parts so they're experienced as something more than watching. You can sing, build, plant, or decorate something—just make sure participants take part with action. When people contribute together, the experience feels more fun and collaborative.
Your Turn
Think about your own communities.
Where are the moments of play?
Are there traditions that celebrate milestones, offer time to build admiration, or simply bring joy?
If not, it’s time to create them.
And if you already have them—make them even more meaningful.
Because play isn’t just fun.
It’s essential for building communities that last through hard times.
Watch the full episode here: The Art of Community Conversations Episode 3
Get free resources on building the community you long for at www.charlesvogl.com
