08/06/2026
Balloons to Heaven Day honors the countless lives lost to gun violence every August 6. This poignant observance unites families in sorrow, offering a symbolic release of balloons to remember loved ones and foster collective healing. Take time to reflect, support advocacy, and contribute to the ongoing fight for peace.
5 Facts About Balloons
Balloons originated in ancient China
In 220 A.D., the Chinese invented floating lanterns that signaled messages during battles.
Balloons for the planet
Modern latex balloons are biodegradable and go up to over five km in the air.
The first rubber balloon
During one of his experiments, Scientist Michael Faraday made rubber bags filled with gas to study it.
Balloons for military strategies
Napoleon used balloons for observation during battles, as did most military during WWI.
Balloons in surgeries
During angioplasty, doctors insert balloons into blocked blood vessels to help clear the build-up inside.
Why Balloons to Heaven Day is Important
A day for healing
A new day. Another opportunity to heal. Whether you prefer reminiscing or releasing balloons, the goal is to attempt to deal with grief.
Sharing grief makes it easier
Rituals unite those who are grieving through shared experiences. It’s a reminder that they’re not alone.
The good fight
Today we’re reminded to ask the right questions and find solutions. Research shows that mass shootings are mainly because of easy access to guns and not of a society’s baseline violence levels.