How to Make Balloons GLOW for Neon Parties

Joette Giardina

Mentor. Motivator. Speaker.

How to Make Balloons GLOW for Neon Parties

GLOW parties are a popular choice for social events, school dances, and corporate celebrations. One of the most common questions balloon artists ask is:

“How do I make my balloons glow as bright as possible, wil the balloons glow on their own?”

The secret lies in choosing the right balloons and setting up under proper lighting.

Best Balloons to glow with UV lighting.

Not all balloons react the same way under blacklight. To achieve the most vibrant glow, select neon balloons specifically designed for UV lighting.

Based on experience, here are two top choices:

🎈 Sempertex Neon Balloons – These have the boldest and most vibrant glow under UV lighting, making them a favorite among balloon professionals.

🎈 Gemar Neon Balloons – Another great option, offering a solid neon effect under blacklight.

Lighting Matters

To maximize the glow effect, consider these key lighting tips:

✔ Use UV Light Bars or floods
– Position UV lights on the ground, aiming them upward to illuminate your balloons effectively.
-Put lighting on Light stands and position to throw lights fully on walls, ceiling decor and larger designs & centerpiece.

✔ Turn Off Regular Lights – The darker the room, the stronger the neon glow effect.
✔ Close the curtains on Windows. If the event is being held during the day and the venue does not have room darking curtains, you made need to take extra measures to cover the windows.
✔ Test Before the Event – Different UV lights may produce varying results, so always test your setup in advance.

The photo shown here features Sempertex Neon Balloons from the Balloon Coach Summer Tour 2021 (New Jersey stop). Notice how the UV light bars on the ground enhance the glow, even with regular room light

When a room is DARK the UV lighting and balloons have the best glow.

Sempertex Neon Balloons created a dynamic look in the room at our summer tour in New Jersey.

Gemar latex used to create this balloon drop at Balloon Boss Summit in Orlando.

Bonus Tip

Even without UV lighting, neon balloons create a stunning, high-energy look for daytime and well-lit events. Their vibrant colors add excitement to any celebration, making them a fantastic choice for any event theme.

Click link below for a behind the scenes transformation of the ballroom at Balloon Boss Summit for our Neon glow party. The primary neon balloons in the room were Sempertex, supplied by Betallic, and the Balloons in the Balloon Drop were from Gemar USA.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKpoV0KfsQ4