Garrett County Business Development is pleased to celebrate the opening of Play Out Loud, an innovative indoor play space and children's museum located at 115 South Second Street in downtown Oakland.
Founded by local entrepreneurs Kaylee and Scott Livengood, Play Out Loud represents another exciting investment in Garrett County's small business community. Designed to inspire creativity, imagination, and hands-on learning, the facility offers children and families a welcoming, year-round destination featuring interactive exhibits and engaging play experiences.
The official ribbon cutting was held on Tuesday, July 22, 2026, in partnership with the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce. Community leaders in attendance included Garrett County Commissioner Paul Edwards; Oakland Mayor Andrew Sauder; Business Development Manager Kim Durst; members of the Oakland Town Council; representatives of the Greater Oakland Business Association; Garrett County Chamber of Commerce President Nick Sharps; Chamber Board members and Diplomats; and local business and community supporters. The ceremony was emceed by Connor Norman, Business Development Specialist with Garrett County Business Development.
"As a father and grandfather, I know how important it is to have safe, engaging places where kids can learn, explore, and simply enjoy being children," said Commissioner Paul Edwards. "Play Out Loud is a wonderful addition to Garrett County, providing families with a year-round space that encourages creativity, imagination, and hands-on learning. Kaylee and Scott have created something truly special, and I applaud their investment in our community and their commitment to enriching the lives of local families."
"Supporting entrepreneurs like Kaylee and Scott is central to our mission," said Kim Durst, Business Development Manager for Garrett County Business Development. "Their vision, creativity, and commitment have transformed an idea into a destination that enhances our community, provides a valuable resource for local families, and strengthens downtown Oakland as a place to live, work, and visit. We are excited to see Play Out Loud become part of Garrett County's growing small business landscape."
The thoughtfully designed facility includes imaginative play areas inspired by everyday life and the local community, including a farm and market, construction zone, restaurant, veterinary clinic, sensory play experiences, and dedicated space for birthday parties and special events. Partnerships with local businesses and organizations have helped create a unique destination that reflects the collaborative spirit of Garrett County.
As the organization continues to grow, Play Out Loud is entering an exciting new phase by transitioning to operate exclusively as Fostering Imagination, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding access to creative and educational play opportunities for children throughout Garrett County. Through this transition, the organization plans to pursue grants, sponsorships, and community partnerships to ensure that children of all backgrounds have access to inclusive, enriching play experiences.
Garrett County Business Development congratulates Kaylee and Scott Livengood on this milestone and looks forward to the positive impact Play Out Loud will have on families, visitors, and the continued vitality of downtown Oakland.
For more information about Play Out Loud, including hours of operation, birthday party reservations, or opportunities to support its nonprofit mission, please visit the business website or call 301-533-0009.
Photo courtesy of the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce.
