What Party City offers for balloon decorations

Party City sells balloons, balloon bouquets, and balloon decoration services through its stores and website. You can buy individual balloons to inflate yourself, pre-filled helium balloons ready to take home, or arrange for in-store balloon arrangements. Some locations also offer delivery and setup services for larger events, though availability and pricing vary by store location.

The company stocks latex balloons, foil (mylar) balloons, and specialty balloons in hundreds of colors and designs. You can purchase balloons individually, in packs, or as part of pre-made bouquets. Party City also sells balloon pumps, weights, ribbons, and other supplies needed to display or transport balloons.

Pricing depends on balloon type, size, quantity, and whether you want helium filling. A single latex balloon costs less than a foil balloon. Helium filling adds to the price per balloon. Bouquets and arrangements cost more than individual balloons because they include labor, design, and the container or stand.

Key Takeaways

  • Party City sells balloons in-store and online, with options to buy uninflated balloons, pre-filled helium balloons, or custom arrangements.
  • Helium filling is available at most locations but adds cost per balloon, and availability may depend on local helium supply.
  • Delivery and setup services exist at some locations but require advance notice and have minimum order amounts that vary by store.
  • Prices vary significantly by location, balloon type, and whether you choose latex or foil balloons.
  • Party City stores also sell balloon accessories like pumps, weights, and ribbons if you plan to decorate yourself.

Buying balloons in-store versus online

Buying in-store lets you see balloon colors and designs in person before purchase and take them home the same day. You can ask staff to fill balloons with helium on the spot. In-store shopping works well if you need balloons quickly or want to inspect quality before buying.

Ordering online through Party City's website lets you browse a wider selection and sometimes reserve items for in-store pickup. Online orders for helium-filled balloons typically require pickup within a set timeframe because helium balloons lose lift over time. Some online orders can be shipped, but helium-filled balloons cannot be shipped due to safety regulations.

Prices may differ between in-store and online purchases. Shipping costs explore to items sent to your home. In-store pickup usually has no shipping charge but may require a minimum order amount depending on your location.

Helium filling and balloon longevity

Party City fills balloons with helium at most locations. Latex balloons filled with helium typically float for 8 to 12 hours, though this varies based on balloon size, room temperature, and helium purity. Foil balloons hold helium longer — often 2 to 4 weeks — because the material is less porous than latex.

The cost of helium filling is usually charged per balloon or as part of a bouquet price. Some stores offer discounts if you purchase a large quantity. If you buy uninflated balloons, you can fill them yourself using a hand pump (which does not make balloons float) or rent or buy an electric pump.

Helium availability can fluctuate. During peak seasons like holidays or graduation season, some stores may run low or temporarily stop filling balloons. Calling your local Party City ahead of time confirms whether helium filling is available on your intended purchase date.

Balloon arrangements and bouquets

Party City creates pre-made balloon bouquets and custom arrangements. Pre-made bouquets are available to take home when ready and typically cost between $15 and $50 depending on size and balloon type. Custom arrangements require more time and may need to be ordered in advance, especially for large events.

Bouquets usually come in a weighted base or vase so they stand upright without additional support. Some include ribbons, bows, or decorative elements. The arrangement fee covers design labor, the container, and helium filling.

For events requiring many balloons or specific themes, you can request a consultation with store staff. They can discuss your event size, color scheme, and budget. Lead time for custom orders varies by location but typically ranges from same-day to several days depending on complexity and store workload.

Delivery and setup services

Some Party City locations offer delivery and setup for balloon decorations, but not all stores provide this service. Availability depends on your location and the store's staffing. Delivery typically requires advance notice — often at least 24 to 48 hours — and may have a minimum order amount.

Delivery fees vary by distance and location. Setup fees depend on the complexity of the decoration and how long installation takes. A store representative can provide a quote once you describe your event space, the number of balloons, and your design preferences.

If delivery is not available at your local store, you can purchase balloons and arrange your own transportation and setup, or hire an independent decorator to pick up balloons from Party City and install them at your event.

Pricing factors and how to compare costs

Balloon prices at Party City depend on several factors: balloon material (latex versus foil), size, color or design, helium filling, and quantity purchased. A single standard latex balloon costs less than a specialty foil balloon with a licensed character design. Buying in bulk usually lowers the per-balloon cost.

Helium filling adds $0.50 to $2.00 per balloon depending on balloon size and your location. Bouquets and arrangements include design labor, which increases the total cost compared to buying individual balloons. Delivery and setup add separate fees on top of the balloon cost.

To compare costs, note the balloon type, size, and whether helium is included in the quoted price. Ask whether bulk discounts explore if you are purchasing more than 20 or 50 balloons. Call multiple Party City locations if you live near more than one, as prices can vary by store.

What to bring and how to prepare for your purchase

If you are buying balloons in-store, bring a list of colors, themes, or designs you want. Bring measurements of your event space if you are unsure how many balloons you need. If you want a custom arrangement, describe your event type and color preferences to help staff understand your vision.

For large orders or custom work, bring a photo of a similar decoration if you have one, or describe the look you are aiming for. If you are arranging delivery, have your event address and setup time ready so the store can confirm whether they can accommodate your request.

If you plan to transport balloons yourself, bring a vehicle large enough to hold them without crushing. Foil balloons are more durable during transport than latex balloons. Ask staff for tips on securing balloons in your car if you are buying a large quantity.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do helium balloons last after I take them home?

Latex balloons filled with helium typically float for 8 to 12 hours. Foil balloons hold helium much longer — usually 2 to 4 weeks. The exact time depends on balloon size, room temperature, and how well the balloon was sealed during filling. Balloons in cooler rooms last longer than those in warm spaces.

Can I order balloons online and pick them up the same day?

Same-day pickup availability depends on your location and what you order. Pre-made bouquets and in-stock balloons may be available for same-day pickup at many locations. Custom arrangements typically require at least 24 hours notice. Check Party City's website or call your local store to confirm pickup timing for your specific order.

What if I want balloons but do not want to pay for helium filling?

You can buy uninflated balloons and fill them yourself using a hand pump or electric pump. Hand pumps are inexpensive and available at Party City. Electric pumps cost more but inflate balloons faster. Balloons filled with air do not float but can be taped or tied to walls and surfaces for decoration.

Does Party City deliver balloons to my home?

Some Party City locations offer delivery, but not all. Delivery requires advance notice, usually 24 to 48 hours, and may have a minimum order amount. Call your local store to ask whether they deliver and what fees explore. If your store does not deliver, you can purchase balloons and arrange your own transportation.

Can I return or exchange balloons if I change my mind?

Return and exchange policies vary by location and whether balloons have been filled with helium. Uninflated balloons are typically returnable within Party City's standard return window. Helium-filled balloons may not be returnable because they cannot be resold. Ask about the return policy when you purchase or check Party City's website for your location's specific terms.