About Family Fun Day – June 21, 2026

For 30 years, Making Headway has hosted Family Fun Day for families that have had a child diagnosed with a brain or spinal cord tumor. Over 500 children and their families are invited for a day of free fun, music, games, and VIP admissions.

Our 2026 Family Fun Day will be at Nickelodeon Universe, the largest indoor theme park in the western hemisphere with more than 30 attractions, games, and activities. It includes a mix of high-thrill roller coasters, family rides, and many gentle attractions designed for younger children. The park also features play areas, character meet-and-greets, rope climbing, and a few lucky families can get “slimed” on stage.

Our exclusive time in the park (9am-11am) will be “sensory-friendly,” designed especially for guests with disabilities. Our families can experience their favorite rides in a music-free environment, and additional support services from their certified and trained staff. Enjoy free, unlimited use of the entire park until it closes at 7:00pm.

Patient Families* (No Cost)
Supporters $75/Person

*Patient families include any person diagnosed with a pediatric brain or spinal cord tumor, as well as their siblings, and primary caregivers.

  • This year marks a special milestone, as Making Headway is celebrating our 30th anniversary. In honor of this occasion, we are inviting our supporters to attend Family Fun Day. Your cost is $75/person, which reflects our actual cost. Of course, our patient families attend for free.
  • Registration is required. Please RSVP by June 1, 2026.
  • To attend or get more info, call Making Headway at (914) 238-8384.
  • Nickelodeon Universe is wheelchair accessible.
  • Can’t attend, but still want to donate to support this event and our mission, click here and scroll down.

Where and When

Date
Sunday, June 21st, 2026

Location
Nickelodeon Universe – American Dream Mall
1 American Dream Way
East Rutherford, NJ 07073

Time
9:00am – 11:00am: Our private party and exclusive use of the entire Nickelodeon Universe amusement park.
11:00am – 12:30pm: Lunch on the Nickelodeon Universe mezzanine.
11:00am – 7pm: Enjoy unlimited access to Nickelodeon Universe rides until closing.

Directions

Driving
Nickelodeon Universe Theme Park is located in the American Dream Mall (1 American Dream Wy, East Rutherford, NJ 07073).  There are several entrances. For detailed driving directions, click here.

Free Parking
Once you arrive at American Dream Mall, follow directions to park in Lot C & D. After parking, enter the building and proceed to the escalator or elevator to Level 1. Follow the signs for Nickelodeon Universe.

Transportation Support
If you need help traveling to and from Family Fun Day, please contact Jennifer Samuels at (914) 238-8384.

Contact

Call Jennifer Samuels at 914-238-8384
Email: jennifer@makingheadway.org

About Making Headway

The discovery that a child has a brain or spinal cord tumor changes everything. The future becomes uncertain; families struggle with anxiety and fear. A strong medical team can help a family take its first crucial steps forward. But reconstructing a life and nurturing a family devastated by the emotional and physical demands of treatment and its aftermath go beyond what a medical environment can provide. That’s where Making Headway comes in.