Foam, Lights & Magic: 3 Unique Summer Events I Can’t Wait to Do with My Toddler

Summer is for play, and I’ve found three incredible events in the DC area that go way beyond the playground. Think bubbles, dance parties, immersive exhibits, and toddler-safe chaos—the best kind. Here are three over-the-top fun events we’re counting down to this season…

1. Bubble Run 5K – Foam, Fun, and Free for Littles!

📍 Rosecroft Raceway, Fort Washington, MD🗓 September 27, 2025

This one’s been on my radar for a while! The Bubble Run is a 5K race, but honestly, it’s more of a bubble wonderland than a competitive event—which makes it perfect for families with toddlers. At each kilometer, runners pass through giant foam bogs, and by the end, you’re covered head-to-toe in colorful bubbles. You can run, walk, skip, or stroll—strollers are welcome, and kiddos 4 and under participate for free!

Value Tickets start at $54.95 per adult and VIP tickets (adds t-shirt, sunglasses, bubble wand, & more) start at $99.95.

We’re planning to arrive early (check-in starts at 7 AM, race begins at 8), pack snacks, and wear white for the best foam-splattered photo ops. Pro tip: there’s a parking fee and long lines for packet pickup, so I’ll likely grab ours the day before to keep things smooth on race morning.

Visit the official Bubble Run DC purchase page to buy tickets. Search “Bubble Run Washington D.C.” on bubblerun.com allevents.in+3bubblerun.com+3facebook.com+3

2. Kiddo Rave – Dance, Play, and Glow!

📍 Shipgarten, McLean, VA🗓 Multiple Dates – We’re eyeing June 22!

The name says it all—this is a rave… for kids! Picture a daytime dance party with bubbles, glow sticks, a kid-friendly DJ, and an entire area decked out for tiny partygoers. There’s also face painting, moon bounces, arts and crafts, and even a magic show that kicks off around 2 PM.

Admission is free, which is such a bonus, and the event runs from 12–6 PM. We’ll be bringing a carrier since stroller parking is required and tossing in a pair of toddler ear defenders to keep things fun (not overwhelming) for little ears. I love that it’s high-energy but safe and structured. Plus—pets are welcome, so even the family dog might tag along!

To register head to Shipgarten’s Kiddo Rave page (search online) or find it on Eventbrite under “Kiddo Rave – Shipgarten.” shipgarten.com+8shipgarten.com+8eventbrite.com+8

3. Bubble Planet – An Immersive, Sensory Adventure

📍 524 Rhode Island Ave NE, Washington, DC🗓 Running through September 2025

If you have a toddler who loves bubbles (so, every toddler ever?), this is a must. Bubble Planet is an indoor, interactive experience made up of 10+ themed rooms—everything from a giant ball pit to a dreamy “Bubble Ocean,” VR bubbles, and infinity rooms that make for magical photos. It’s sensory-rich and designed for all ages, so toddlers can explore safely while older kids and grownups have fun too.

Adult tickets (ages 17+) start at $19.90 and a child's ticket (ages 3-16) starts at $14.90. Ticket prices vary by day.

What I love most: children under 2 get in free, it’s fully stroller-accessible, and you can expect to spend about 60–90 minutes inside—just enough time for big fun without toddler overstimulation. We’ll definitely be making a weekday visit to beat the crowds and enjoy the slower pace.

Secure a timeslot via Fever’s booking platform—search “Bubble Planet Washington DC tickets” eventbrite.com+15feverup.com+15bubble-planet.com+15

 Final Notes & Tips

• Bubble Run: Sign up soon—price is locked through June 18. Plan packet pick‑up the day before to skip fees and get there early for parking.

• Kiddo Rave: Reserve free tickets ASAP—no cost, but they do run out. Bring ear protection and stroller‑friendly gear.

• Bubble Planet: Book a weekday morning session for calmer crowds. Socks required in bubble rooms, and stroller parking is available.