Helium balloon filling services are popular for celebrations, especially when it comes to events like birthdays, weddings, and baby showers, which feel more festive with balloons filled with helium. DIY party planning is now very common and easy, as people enjoy decorating themselves, inspired by social media ideas. Party stores and grocery stores assist by filling balloons filled with helium, and event planners also utilize these services for grand decorations.
Key Takeaways
Stores like Party City and Michaels can fill helium balloons. You can bring your own balloons or buy them there. They make it quick and easy for you.
Grocery stores like Walmart and Kroger have cheap helium services. It can cost as little as $0.25 per balloon. You can shop and plan your party at the same time.
Balloon shops have special designs and better helium quality. These balloons float longer and are great for important events.
Party Supply Stores for Helium Balloons
Big Chains (e.g., Party City, Michaels)
Big party stores like Party City and Michaels are great for helium balloons. These stores focus on party items and can fill your balloons easily. You can bring your own balloons or buy them there to get them filled. Some stores even sell pre-filled helium balloons, which is helpful if you’re in a hurry.
But remember, helium prices are going up because of shortages and costs. This means filling balloons might cost more at these stores. During busy times like holidays or graduations, helium might run out. Planning early can help you avoid problems.
Small Local Party Stores
Small local party stores are also good for helium balloons. These shops often give personal service and may have special balloon designs. Shopping locally can feel nice, especially for big events.
Still, local stores might face the same helium problems as big chains. They could run out of helium during busy times. It’s smart to call first and check if they can help.
No matter where you go, party stores are great for helium balloons for your celebrations.
Grocery Stores and Retailers for Helium Balloon Filling
Walmart
Walmart is a simple place to fill helium balloons. Bring your own balloons or buy them there. It costs only $0.25 per balloon, making it very cheap. Here’s a price comparison:
Provider | Price per Balloon |
|---|---|
Walmart | $0.25 |
CVS | Free (with purchase) |
Dollar Tree | Free (with purchase) |
Dollar General | $0.50 – $1 (latex) |
Up to $4 (mylar) | |
Kroger | $1 (latex) |
$3 – $8 (mylar) |
Walmart also sells helium tanks for home use. These are great for big parties. Many people like Walmart for its fast and easy service.
Kroger and Other Grocery Stores
Kroger and stores like Meijer and Publix also fill balloons. At Kroger, the floral section usually handles this. Latex balloons cost $1, while mylar balloons cost $3 to $8, depending on size.
Shoppers enjoy filling balloons while buying groceries. Some stores, like CVS and Dollar Tree, even fill balloons for free if you buy them there. Check reviews to see how friendly and quick the staff is.
Why choose Kroger and similar stores:
No need to buy balloons in-store.
Prices are fair for both latex and mylar balloons.
Easy to combine errands with party planning.
Target and Similar Stores
Target is another good choice for helium services. Not all Target stores offer this, but many do. Look for stores with a party section. Prices are reasonable, and they often have cool balloon designs.
Other stores, like Fred Meyer, also fill balloons. These are handy if you’re already shopping for party items. Call ahead to check prices and availability at your local store.
Wholesale Clubs for Helium Balloon Filling
Costco
Costco is a great place to fill helium balloons. It’s perfect for big parties because it sells items in bulk. Not all Costco stores have helium services, but many do. Look for this service in the floral or seasonal section.
Costco is affordable, especially for members. They also sell helium tanks for home use. These tanks are easy to carry and simple to use. They’re helpful if you need to fill lots of balloons yourself.
Before visiting Costco, call your store to check if they offer helium. This saves time and helps you avoid last-minute problems.
Sam’s Club
Sam’s Club is another good option for helium balloons. Like Costco, it’s great for bulk shopping and offers good deals for members. Many Sam’s Club locations fill balloons in the party or floral section.
Sam’s Club also sells helium tanks for home use. These tanks come in different sizes to match your needs. They’re handy for big events or if you want to fill balloons at home.
Call your local Sam’s Club to confirm prices and availability. Some stores may even give member discounts, making it a better deal.
Both Costco and Sam’s Club are dependable places for helium services, especially for large celebrations.
Specialty Balloon Shops for Helium Services
Looking for a special touch? Specialty balloon shops are a great choice. These stores focus only on balloons, making them experts.
Independent Balloon Stores
Independent balloon shops are great for unique helium services. They offer more designs, colors, and sizes than big stores. They also use purer helium, so balloons float longer.
For instance, Vancouver Balloons uses 99.99% pure helium. This keeps balloons floating for 10 to 24 hours. Big stores like Michaels use helium mixed with air, so balloons float only 5 to 7 hours. Here’s a comparison:
Feature | Specialty Balloon Shop (Vancouver Balloons) | Larger Retailer (Michael’s) |
|---|---|---|
Helium Purity | 99.99% pure | Mixture of Helium and Air (80% helium) |
Balloon Float Time | 10-24 hours | 5-7 hours |
Cost per 11” Latex Balloon | $2.69 – $4.76 (depending on tank size) | $3.44 |
Suitable for | Parties/events lasting longer than 2 hours | Small home celebrations |
If you need balloons to last all party long, try these stores.
Online Balloon Retailers with Local Pickup
Online balloon shops with local pickup are super handy. You can order online and pick up pre-filled balloons nearby. This saves time and ensures your balloons are ready.
Many online stores team up with local shops for helium services. Party stores, big retailers, and grocery stores often help with helium filling. Here’s what they offer:
Retailer Type | Services Offered | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
Party Supply Stores | Varies by balloon type | |
Big-Box Retailers | Helium services for in-store purchases | As low as $0.25/balloon |
Grocery Stores | Helium filling for both latex and mylar balloons | $1 to $16 depending on size/type |
Online shops are affordable and easy to use. They’re perfect for party planning!
Other Ways to Fill Balloons with Helium
Sometimes, going to a store isn’t the easiest choice. For big events or eco-friendly ideas, there are other ways to fill balloons or make cool decorations.
Renting a Helium Tank
Renting a helium tank is great for large parties. It’s cheaper and faster if you need to fill over 50 small balloons or 27 regular ones. These tanks can be reused and refilled, making them eco-friendly. You also won’t run out of helium during your event.
Here’s a cost guide:
Item Type | Price Range |
|---|---|
Small disposable helium tank | |
Large helium tank (rental) | $35 to $190 |
Large helium tank (purchase) | $145 to $400 |
Renting is popular for weddings and big gatherings. It’s a smart way to ensure you have enough helium.
Buying a Helium Tank
If you throw parties often, buying a tank might be smarter. You can fill balloons anytime without worrying about store hours. It’s handy and saves money if you host many events yearly.
Disposable tanks work best for small parties. They’re simple to use but not ideal for big events. If you need over 50 balloons, renting is more affordable.
Air-Filled Balloons with Sticks or Stands
Air-filled balloons are a greener option. Use sticks or stands to make fun displays without helium. This is cheaper and better for the planet.
Some places now ban helium balloon releases to protect the environment. For example, California and some European countries have these rules. Air-filled balloons help you decorate beautifully while being eco-friendly.
Environmental Benefit | Economic Impact |
|---|---|
Reduces waste with biodegradable materials | Encourages innovation in eco-friendly designs |
Minimizes environmental impact of balloon use | Meets growing demand for sustainable products |
Air-filled displays are great for birthdays, showers, and work events. They’re creative, affordable, and good for the Earth.
Choosing the best helium balloon service depends on your needs. Party stores, grocery stores, and specialty shops have different options. Grocery stores are cheap and easy to use. Specialty shops offer unique and high-quality designs.
Service Type | Main Advantage | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
Grocery Stores | Cheap and convenient | |
Specialty Shops | Unique designs, better quality | $2.69–$4.76/balloon |
Helium Tank Rental | Great for big parties | $35–$190 |
For big parties, renting or buying a helium tank is smart. Air-filled balloons with stands are a fun, eco-friendly choice. Compare prices and services to pick the best option for your party! 🎈
FAQ
Can I bring my own balloons to get them filled with helium?
Yes, most stores let you bring your own balloons. Call ahead to confirm their policy and pricing for helium filling.
How long do helium balloons stay inflated?
Latex balloons float for 8–12 hours, while mylar balloons last 2–5 days. Specialty shops may offer purer helium for longer float times.
Tip: Add Hi-Float to latex balloons to extend their float time!
What should I do if helium isn’t available near me?
You can rent or buy a helium tank. Alternatively, use air-filled balloons with stands or sticks for creative, eco-friendly decorations.
