Balloon Releases

BALLOON RELEASES / RACES
Over The Rainbow as members of NABAS (National Association of Balloon Artists and Suppliers) and we work to a code of conduct for the safe release of balloons. Balloon releases are fun and spectacular and can fulfil a variety of promotional and fundraising objectives. Over The Rainbow can supply all the necessary goods for a successful release and provide full assistance before and at the event. A full code of conduct for a successful release is available. We work closely with local businesses, schools and charities to run successful balloon races. They can be an excellent source of income for charities, PTA associations etc

PLANNING THE EVENT

The essentials are:

• Balloon race tickets
• Balloons
• Release net
• Helium
• Licence if required

Over The Rainbow can organise the release for you, or you can buy a kit and do it yourself, please contact us for full detail.

SET TARGETS
Set a target for the number of tickets you want to sell. Be positive and publicise your aims. It is important to update the number of tickets sold on a regular basis on a public notice board if possible. This allows people to see the results of their hard work. In schools use assemblies, news letters etc. to keep everyone informed on progress.

APPLYING FOR PERMISSION
It is a requirement that if more than a 5,000 balloons are to be released permission must be applied for from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) at least 28 days prior to the event. It is not necessary to apply for permission for releases up to 5,000 balloons but the CAA does like to know about them. As a matter of course we notify the CAA for any balloon release we carry out.

SELLING THE TICKETS
Plan to start selling the tickets about four to six weeks prior to the release, always try to order enough tickets, but do not panic we always have some in stock and can quickly print some more for you. You should aim to sell most tickets (at least 95%) before the day. The tickets need to be priced at £1.00 each (more if you think you can). Prizes need to be awarded to the finder and the buyer of the balloon that travels the longest distance. Prizes could be donated or alternatively a cash prize could be offered.

THE RELEASE
If it is a small release it can be done with the children holding each individual balloon and letting them go on a countdown. BEWARE children are very prone to letting them go early!! The best way is from a net on a countdown this is a spectacular sight and one that pleases all. A further benefit to releasing balloons in this way is that it makes an excellent photo opportunity for the local press, giving you the opportunity to reinforce your aims to a wider audience.