Balloons in the California Sun? Here’s What You Should Know
We get it — you’ve seen those dreamy balloon garlands draped over bounce houses or floating across fences, and you want the same look for your outdoor party. But here in Orange County, our beautiful weather comes with a catch: the sun is strong. Especially in summer, when temperatures climb and shade is hard to come by, balloons can become a little… unpredictable.
So what actually happens when balloons sit in the heat?
Balloons + Heat = Trouble (Sometimes)
Once the temperature starts rising (think anything over 80°F), balloons begin to expand. That pressure can lead to:
- Popping, especially if they’re dark-colored or placed on hot surfaces
- Fading or “oxidizing” — the shiny finish turns dull or matte
- Color changes, especially with pastels or layered colors
- Sagging or drooping of garlands if they’re not properly supported
We’ve even seen balloons get sticky or soft from the heat — which is not ideal when you’re trying to create a polished setup.
How We Handle Outdoor Installs in OC
Luckily, we’ve learned a few things. Here’s how we work around the heat and help your balloon decor look its best:
- We recommend shaded spots first. If there’s a tree, patio, pergola, or even a pop-up tent, that’s our favorite place to install a garland.
- We use high-quality balloons designed to handle more pressure and sun than the average party store brand.
- We double-stuff balloons for certain colors, especially whites and pastels. It gives them a thicker layer and helps reduce oxidation.
- We set up early. Morning installs give balloons a better chance to adjust to the heat slowly, rather than being hit all at once.
- We avoid dark surfaces like asphalt or concrete walls when we can. These surfaces radiate heat and make balloons pop faster.
- We choose color palettes wisely. Pastels and light tones last longer in the sun, while deep reds, blacks, and metallics can heat up quickly.
What If You Don’t Have Shade?
That’s okay too — we’ll give you realistic expectations and suggestions. Sometimes we bring shade tents to cover delicate pieces. Other times we help you position installations for the best angles (and the best photos!) while keeping balloon life in mind.
Also, we always design with a timeline in mind — if you only need the balloons to last a few hours, we can create something impactful and short-term. But if you’re hoping for decor that lasts all day (or multiple days), we’ll help you plan accordingly.
Yes, You Can Still Have Balloons Outside
Don’t let the heat scare you off. Balloons can still be part of your OC summer party, from beachside birthdays in Newport to backyard baby showers in Irvine. They just need a little extra planning — and that’s where we come in.
We’ll help you think through the layout, give honest recommendations, and build something beautiful that works for your event and the forecast. Contact us today for your customized balloon garland!
