Bubblefest a big hit at Lords Park in Elgin

Children squealed in delight while chasing giant bubbles Saturday at Lords Park in Elgin.

The Elgin Public Museum sponsored its annual Bubblefest, an extravaganza centered around the age-old pastime of blowing bubbles. Several adults not-so-surreptitiously joined in, too.

“It’s a lot of fun,” said Michael Grezenko of Addison, who came with his wife, Irene, and their two children, Issabella, 4, and Michael Jr., 2. “It’s our first time here. I didn’t really know what to expect, but it’s really nice.”

Beside blowing lots and lots of bubbles, kids made bubble art and learned how to make bubble blowers at home by using simple tools like two straws and a couple of pieces of string. They also learned how to create the soapy concoction that actually makes bubbles happen.

“I tried it at home before, but it never worked. Hopefully this time it will work,” said Rosanna Kasch of Elgin while her children Sofia, 3, and Dominic, 1, squatted by a big basin full of the liquid. While Sofia blew bubbles, little Dominic concentrated very hard on dunking a bubble maker in and out of the basin.

The secret ingredient is glycerin, plus water and a soap like Dawn, said Elgin Public Museum education coordinator Sara Russell. “It’s very simple,” she said.

John and Ruth Bradburn said they really enjoy the programming the Elgin Public Museum offers for children. The couple came to Bubblefest with their grandsons Josiah, 4, and Jaden, 2.

“Personally, I’m really happy (the museum) is here for the community. It attracts a real diverse population, which I think is great,” Ruth Bradburn said.

On Saturday, June 16, the museum will present “Funky Frogs,” part of its Preschool Awareness World Series, from 10 to 11:30 a.m., and “Plants of Illinois” from 1 to 2 p.m. For more information, visit elginpublicmuseum.org or call (847) 741-6655.