The Bubble Run: Having Good, Clean Fun … Literally!

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What could put more fun in a fun run than a colorful bubble bath?

The Bubble Run promises more fun and enjoyment than traditional 5K runs. It is different from other running events because people don’t participate to win, and there is no clock to beat. This makes this running event kid­ friendly. What gives participants the bragging rights is having the most color on them which they get from the colorful cloud of bubbles they run through. Around 500,000 people participate in the event each year in more than 40 cities.

The Bubble Run

The Bubble Run comes to Des Moines, Iowa on October 8 this year. There will be two “heats” or running schedules; the first one starts at 8:00 a.m. and the other at 9:00 a.m. The registration fee is $50, but if you register on or before July 22, you pay only $20.

Kids four and below can join the event for free, but they have to be accompanied by an adult who is registered for the event. Proceeds from this fun run will go to Bubble Run’s charity partners and you can also register as a volunteer!

What to Expect

Participants run through bubble bogs. Bubble machines are installed overhead, filling each bog with colorful, fluffy foam. The foam is around four to seven feet deep, depending on where you are in the bog. Bubble Run’s official website says that the foam is non­toxic and 100% safe. There will be a Bubble Run After Party where participants get an additional bubble bath and fight with bubble guns as they dance to the music.

What to Wear

Bubble Run packets will be distributed the day before the event at a venue which is going to be announced later. The packet contains a tutu, a headband, and other items.

You can choose to pick up the packet on the day of the fun run, but you will have to pay a $5 fee. Kids who participate for free will not receive a packet, but a kid’s pack may be purchased at $20.

You can wear anything you like, but you’ll have the most fun with an all­white outfit. Having patches of color on your clothes from the colored foam will earn you some swag. Because you will be running through a blizzard of foam, you’re advised to wear a pair of sunglasses to prevent the bubbles from getting into your eyes. If you just had your hair bleached, make sure that you’re wearing a hat or a bandana so that the color won’ t cling to your hair.

BubbleRun

Some Do’s and Don’ts

Here are some tips and guidelines to follow so you and your kids can stay safe and have the most fun during the Bubble Run:

  • Hold onto your kids and keep them close. So far, there has been no record of participants losing their children in the Bubble Run, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
  • Don’t run back and forth in the bogs. The whole track is one­way traffic only. You could collide with other runners if you run in another direction.
  • Hold on to your personal items. If you drop something, it will be buried in the foam, and you will have a hard time looking for it. The item will also be a tripping hazard to other runners. Should you accidentally drop anything, remember the approximate location and let the staff know immediately.
  • Remind your kids not to stop and play under the bubble machines. Never sit or lie down. Making bubble angels is a bad idea because the oncoming runners may not see you under the foam and you could get trampled on.
  • Stay on the left if you’re running and on the right, if you’re just watching, strolling or dancing.
  • Bring a small cloth or a bandana so you can wipe the bubbles off your kids’ face whenever you need to. Bring extra money for food, drinks and souvenirs.

If you want to participate in a family­friendly fun run, or if you’re not the competitive type and you just want to have fun, you may want to sign up. Winning the race is not the point here; it’s having fun all the way to the finish line. It’s also a good way to make memories with your whole family while supporting the worthy causes of Bubble Run’s charity partners.

Guest Contributor
Katie Dillman, Communications Coordinator at Premier Glow
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Erin Huiatt

Erin is a reliable resource and stepping stone for women and families to find support and make connections within our community. She wants families to feel confident to reach out and ask for help and advice to get pointed in the right direction. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her two children in tow!

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