Transform Your Library’s Summer Reading Program with Outdoor Fun

Let’s be honest. Some kids don’t jump for joy when they hear the words “summer reading program.”
But throw in foam, bubbles, music, or dancing? Now they’re paying attention.

I’ve worked with libraries for years. I’ve seen the same thing again and again—kids show up once, grab their log, and you don’t see them again until prize day. That’s not what we want. We want them coming back, week after week.

And I’ve found a secret.

It’s this: Make it feel like summer.
Outside. Loud. Laughing. Moving. And yes—still connected to reading.

Let’s talk about how outdoor kids entertainment can breathe new life into your program.

Why Outdoor Fun Belongs in Your Library Summer Reading Program

Here’s what I know: the libraries that draw the biggest crowds in summer do two things well—

They make reading feel exciting
They make the experience feel like a party

Outdoor fun does both.

You create memories. You build positive connections between books and fun. That’s how we win over reluctant readers. That’s how we make your library the place to be this summer.

Outdoor Kids Entertainment That Actually Works

You don’t need a huge budget. You don’t need a giant space. But you do need something exciting.

Here are some tried-and-true options I’ve seen work wonders at libraries:

Foam Parties

Yep—foam. Big piles of safe, fluffy foam that kids go nuts for.
Add music and you’ve got an instant hit.

It’s one of the most unforgettable activities for kids outdoors. And it’s easier to host than you think.
I’ve seen librarians worry about mess or cleanup. Don’t. The foam evaporates. You’re left with happy, soaking-wet kids and zero trash to pick up.

Bubble Bonanzas

Kids never outgrow bubbles. Set up bubble machines, pass out giant wands, and let the kids create their own magic.
Simple? Yes. But trust me—when the sun is shining and the bubbles are flying, you’ve got pure joy happening on your front lawn.

Pair it with a book about weather, flight, or science, and boom—you’ve tied it to reading.

Dance Parties

Hire a DJ or use a Bluetooth speaker. Add streamers, balloons, and maybe a few giveaways.
Now you’ve got one of the most fun outdoor party ideas your library has ever done.

And don’t forget themed dance parties:

Read & Rock: Books and beats
Storybook Shuffle: Kids dress as characters and dance
Beat the Heat Bash: Cool tunes, cool prizes

How to Connect These Activities to Reading

Here’s the magic formula: Lead with fun. Then tie it to a book.

You can build an entire theme around a party:

Foam party + ocean books
Bubble day + books on air, science, or fantasy
Dance day + rhythm, music, and movement books

Each event becomes a celebration and a chance to check out titles.
Don’t make it a requirement. Just make it easy.

Set up displays outside. Let kids browse while they’re still smiling and laughing from the activity.
And let them come to the books on their own terms.

Easy Wins for Busy Librarians

Worried about setup? I get it. You’re doing a hundred things.
Here’s what to keep in mind:

Pick one big event per week. You don’t need something every day.
Rotate your events. One week foam, next week bubbles, next week story scavenger hunt.
Work with local performers. Hire pros who specialize in outdoor kids entertainment. They bring the gear, the sound, the energy. You just provide the space.
Let the weather work for you. Summer is your stage. Use it.

More ideas here:
👉 Outdoor Entertainment for Kids – Freddy Frog’s Foam

Real Stories from Real Libraries

I’ve been at shows where 300+ kids showed up.
Yes, 300.

One library booked a foam party during the first week of their reading program. It doubled their signups compared to the year before. Why?
Because kids saw something fun happening—and they told their friends.

Another librarian told me this:

“The energy from that one event lasted all summer. The parents kept asking when we’d do it again. The kids wanted to come back every week just to see what else we had up our sleeve.”

That’s the power of outdoor fun.

Make This Summer Unforgettable

Look, summer doesn’t last forever. But the memories do.

And your library can be the place where those memories are made.
Not in silence. Not just in quiet corners. But outside, where kids run, laugh, and connect those good feelings with books.

You don’t need to do everything.
You just need to do something different.

Start with one bold idea. One joyful experience.
Bring the fun outside. The kids—and the books—will follow.

Book the Fun Now

Don’t overthink it. Don’t scroll through endless Pinterest boards.

If you want the kind of outdoor entertainment kids remember forever—you just found it.

Contact me today to get started