Why Do We Celebrate With Balloons?

There is something about balloons that brings a sense of joy, fun and child-like pleasure.

Whatever the draw may be, balloons are associated with parties, festivities and celebrations throughout the world. However, balloons are also used in many other applications such as weather monitoring, medicine and communication.

The History of Balloons

Before the use of rubber and plastic for balloon manufacturing, animal bladders and intestines were manipulated into shapes or inflated with air or water for use as toys and entertainment.

The Aztecs twisted cat bowels into animal shapes and filled them with air as offerings to the gods. Lanterns have been used in Asia for centuries for military applications and celebrations.

Scientist Michael Faraday is credited with the invention of the first rubber balloon in 1824 when he joined two pieces of rubber together and filled the bag with hydrogen.

He noted that these hydrogen-filled balloons rose easily into the air. Balloon-making kits were sold soon after Faraday’s experiments but it was not until the late 1800s that ready-made rubber balloons were sold as toys.

In 1912, long, sausage-shaped balloons were first made. Latex balloons were developed in the 1920s and by the 1930s, balloons were being twisted into shapes for entertainment and advertising.

With the advent of foil balloons made from plastic in the 1970s, pictures, photographs and other graphics could be rendered on the surface without distortion.

The release of hundreds of helium balloons at a time became a popular practice in the 1980s.

After a balloon is released into the air, it eventually descends, and pieces blown by the wind settle onto water and soil.

Over time, people became concerned about the litter from balloon releases. Today, there is growing awareness of how to use balloons responsibly to avoid harm to animals and the environment without forfeiting the joy associated with these inflatable toys.

Balloons for Celebrations

Balloons are a popular way to celebrate birthdays, sports events and festivals. They are also used to commemorate significant events in people’s lives such as marriages or memorials to loved ones.

Balloon artists create three-dimensional decorations such as architectural elements, animals and sculptures. Welcome arches and balloon walls are often featured at weddings and other festivities.

Children enjoy watching balloon artists twist balloons into cartoon characters or exotic animals. Balloons are also used commercially to celebrate grand openings of businesses or launch new products.

At Specialty Balloons, we create custom balloons for fun, business and everything in between. Our graphic designers work with you to create customised text, photographs, images and shapes for balloons of all types, sizes and colours. Contact Specialty Balloons today to find out how to celebrate and bring joy to your special event with balloons.