Balloons to Heaven Day (August 6th)

Balloons to Heaven Day has been a deeply meaningful event for many people. Connected to not only honoring and remembering those who have lost loved ones, this event is particularly about those whose lives have been lost through gun violence.

The symbolism of this day encourages the idea of sending messages and love to those who have passed on, tapping into the emotional power of letting go, while helping people express their feelings and find some closure​. The day also serves a broader purpose, aiming to raise awareness about the impact of gun violence on families and communities.

Originally founded with the idea of releasing helium balloons with messages inside, this practice has gone by the wayside due to environmental concerns associated with balloon releases. However, the sentiment of releasing messages into the beyond is still relevant today!

History of Balloons to Heaven Day

The origins of using balloons in commemorative practices are not tied to a single event but have evolved from various cultural and personal rituals that use symbolic acts to articulate deep emotions and facilitate healing. For millennia, rituals have been used to celebrate memories and grieve loss, but the ritual of releasing a balloon is something that started more recently, in the 20th century.

Balloons to Heaven Day has deep roots in communal healing and remembrance. It began as a way to symbolically send messages of love and remembrance to deceased loved ones through the release of balloons into the sky. Over time, it has also taken on the role of a public statement against gun violence, as increasing incidents have affected communities across the United States​.

While people may not have been as aware of the harm that balloons did to the earth at the time, today it is obvious that balloon releases are not Healthy for anyone. Balloons waste the valuable, limited resource of helium and also create latex/rubber waste that can be harmful to wildlife, as well as simply filling the planet with rubbish.

But that doesn’t mean there aren’t other ways for Balloons to Heaven Day to be celebrated in a meaningful – but more responsible – way!

This day continues to encourage people to reflect, come together, and find a sense of solidarity and purpose in their collective mourning. It’s a day that helps transform personal loss into a communal expression of hope and healing​.

How to Celebrate Balloons to Heaven Day

Virtual Balloon Release

For those who still like the idea of celebrating Balloons to Heaven Day, consider a virtual balloon release! Create digital balloons on social media or dedicated websites, allowing the expression of sentiments without harm to nature.

This way, it’s still possible to partake in the day’s spirit while being ecologically responsible.

Decorate With Paper “Balloons”

This is still an excellent time to create those messages, but instead of placing them in balloons, write them on balloon-shaped pieces of paper and hang them around a classroom, hallway or other community gathering space.

Community Gathering

Organize or attend a community event where folks gather to share their stories of loss surrounding gun violence. This can be a powerful way to feel connected with others who share similar losses and hopes, with the opportunity to provide support and a sense of shared healing.​

Consider Eco-Friendly Alternatives to Balloon Releases

As the conversation about finding less harmful ways to commemorate our loved ones, continues, don’t be afraid to get creative with celebrating Balloons to Heaven Day!

Some suggest eco-friendly alternatives like planting trees, hosting a candlelight vigil, or encouraging a peaceful protest gathering against gun violence to minimize the impact on the environment while still preserving the ceremony’s heartfelt intentions​.