Bubbles are magical any time of year, but did you know that making bubbles in the winter can be even more enchanting? Cold weather brings a unique twist to bubble-making, allowing for stunning creations and sometimes even freezing bubbles! Whether you're a bubble enthusiast or just looking for a fun winter activity, here are some tips to help you create mesmerizing bubbles during the colder months.
1. Choose the Right Bubble Solution
In winter, the cold air can affect how bubbles form and float. To make bubbles in the winter, you need a solution that can withstand the colder temperatures and is light and airy. You can use store-bought bubble solution, but I recommend making your own with a mixture of water, dish soap, and a little bit of glycerin or corn syrup. The glycerin or syrup helps strengthen the bubbles, making them more resilient to the cold air. Here's a simple recipe to get you started:
- 4 cups hot water (Distilled is best but if the PH of your tap water is ok, you can use it)
- 1/2 cup dish soap
- 1/4 cup glycerin or corn syrup
*note this is for regular bubbles, not big bubbles
Mix the ingredients together and let the solution sit for a few hours before use to get the best results.
2. Find the Right Temperature
While bubbles can be made in the winter, extremely cold temperatures can cause them to freeze mid-air, creating fascinating "frozen bubbles." For the best bubble-blowing experience, aim for temperatures between -10°C to -15°C (14°F to 5°F). In these conditions, you can often see the bubbles freeze and form intricate crystal patterns as they float or land. If it's slightly warmer, your bubbles will last longer and float farther, giving you more time to enjoy them. Little to no wind is ideal - between 0kph to 9kph (0mph to 5.5mph) and can be hard to find at these tempuratures, so be sure to setup next to a building or large structure to block any wind.
3. Use a Cold Bubble Wand
Just like your bubble solution, your bubble wand needs to be prepared for winter. If you're looking to freeze your bubbles, a warm wand will cause the bubbles to pop more quickly, so it’s important to cool your wand before using it. Dip your wand in the bubble solution and let it sit outside for a few minutes to bring it to the same temperature as the air. This will help your bubbles form better and last longer in the cold.
4. Blow Gently
Cold air can be harsh on bubbles, so it's important to blow gently to prevent them from popping right away. Slow, steady breaths will help create bigger, stronger bubbles. The goal is to give your bubbles time to form before the cold air starts affecting them. You may also notice that bubbles move more slowly in the cold due to the denser air, giving you more time to admire their beauty!
5. Try Catching and Freezing Bubbles
One of the most magical things you can do with bubbles in the winter is watch them freeze. If the temperature is cold enough, you’ll see bubbles slowly turn into delicate frozen orbs, often covered in frost-like patterns. To achieve this, blow bubbles and let them land gently on the snow or a cold surface. Watch as they gradually freeze and form intricate crystal designs—just be careful not to touch them, as frozen bubbles are incredibly fragile!
6. Take Advantage of the Snow
Snowy conditions can actually enhance your bubble experience. Blowing bubbles over a snowy surface gives them a soft place to land and can prevent them from popping as quickly. Plus, bubbles floating above a snow-covered landscape look even more magical, with the contrast of bright white snow and delicate, colorful bubbles. It's optimal for photos to be while the sky is somewhat dark - at dawn or dusk.
7. Heat Your Bubbles for BIG Bubbles
For giant bubble making in the winter, use a bucket heater like the one pictured to the right from Amazon . You'll be able to make big beautiful bubbles in the cold weather for 30-45mins until your mixture gets too cold. Safety First! Follow manufacturer instructions and warnings on using a bucket heater. Pro Tip: Keep your Tri-String ropes in the hot bubble mix to keep them from freezing.
8. Make It a Fun Winter Activity
Bubble-making in the winter is a fun activity for people of all ages. Whether you're doing it with kids, friends, or just for yourself, it adds an extra touch of whimsy to a chilly day. Bundle up in warm clothes, grab your bubble solution, and step outside to experience the magic of winter bubbles. You might even capture some beautiful photos of frozen bubbles or crystal patterns! Try these fun bubble wands with cold-activated stickers from South Beach Bubbles!
9. Create Big Bubbles at Night
For a magical holiday twist, try making large bubbles outside at night when holiday lights are shining. The bubbles will reflect the colorful lights, creating a dazzling effect as they float through the air. When light hits a bubble, it doesn’t just reflect once—it reflects multiple times from different layers of the bubble’s surface. This is a perfect way to add extra sparkle to your outdoor winter bubble fun!
10. Capture the Moment 📸
Winter bubbles, especially frozen ones, are incredibly photogenic. If you have a camera handy, try capturing the moment as your bubbles freeze or shimmer against the snowy backdrop. Take close-up shots of the crystal formations or wide-angle shots of bubbles floating through a winter wonderland. These moments are fleeting, but with the right lighting (think bright sunlight or even late afternoon glow), they can be absolutely breathtaking.
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Making bubbles in the winter is a fun and magical way to enjoy the colder months. With the right bubble solution, some gentle technique, and a bit of patience, you can create beautiful, long-lasting bubbles that bring wonder to even the coldest days. Whether you're fascinated by the idea of frozen bubbles or just love seeing bubbles float through the frosty air, winter bubble-making is sure to bring smiles and joy to your day.
So grab your bubble solution, head outside, and let the winter magic unfold! Happy bubbling!
Want to bring a special bubble performance to your winter-time or holiday event?
Contact me now to book your entertainment - but hurry! Holiday dates go fast!
Meadow Perry
Bubble Magician
215-740-0993
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