I made these hot air balloon centerpieces for a baby welcoming party for twins, but they’re great for birthdays or children’s parties as well.

So what do we need?

Small pail
Paper lantern (the ones we make for party decorations)
Wood skewers
Styrofoam or floral foam
Sturdy adhesive – I used hot glue

Since we’re dealing with a party for babies, there’s no need to load up the pail with candy. Put enough to go around without going overboard.

To make the candy look as if it’s filling the pail, I had to elevate it. I placed a styrofoam cube inside the pail and covered it with colorful tissue paper, to keep the candy from touching the Styrofoam. If you plan on filling up the pails with chips and snacks instead, place a smaller Styrofoam cube – just big enough to hold the skewers in place.

Next, glue two skewers to the bottom of each lantern. Use a sturdy glue that won’t fall apart. I used hot glue.

Insert the skewers into the styrofoam and cover the surface with colorful tissue paper or napkins, to separate between it and the candy.

Now all that’s left to do is fill it up!

Our adorable little hot air balloons are ready!