Press release
End of an Era: Soaring Helium Costs Force Closure of Iconic Parabounce
Parabounce Says Goodbye After 25 Years of Gravity-Defying Joy.LOS ANGELES, CA - June 16, 2025 - After nearly three decades of unforgettable flights, Parabounce is closing its doors. The pioneering nonprofit behind the iconic helium-filled balloons that lifted over a million people - on the White House Lawn, at the 2002 Olympics, and even over Rockefeller Center - has been grounded by soaring helium costs and insurance challenges.
Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcoeWD3iRY0-lRQXOiORFPwe8L6BuRgRouCRuqzwKh7uXhZcQW5n4osupEkA1aQyP69CRaZprxybWRYcd8HZusKocERiCRpcXGV0ieYtYzcdVgI0Ta-q6YC6mZyQYCev2ZPCQ2zGw?key=8Q9GUrQtxYKOyKhmaXAqEg
"When we started in 1998, it cost $300 to fill a Parabounce balloon. Today, the same amount of helium costs over $10,000," says founder Steve Meadows. "We've had an amazing ride - literally - but the economics no longer allow flights for the public. Imagine gasoline going from $3.00 a gallon to over $100 and you'll get the picture."
Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXewSwkj4Uks8hMB_pFGF0dBY7KTU6qw1Wxd-EInV7D_hU-FlXrNxNeZb943VZfk1-yCV78fQZysQfYZEtGK4zjDANwgUSf72IM8EkO9k3pkd5VnOjPaYH3ERx92bDWY_RVkI5Lvdw?key=8Q9GUrQtxYKOyKhmaXAqEg
Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXceXiyOr3rkY3MHNSBeDar5GoUBqnh_gGtvVOazLhC0L5pSD8XN-hUci7gMTd7Sv8wYD2nK3vyzoxTT46TEkdR0RSJv1x9ZpE4mQyhEZrv4ibJ392QRzQIsCnDUAjyfMGTMRkWa?key=8Q9GUrQtxYKOyKhmaXAqEg
Voted one of Popular Mechanics "12 Most Innovative Products in the World," the patented Parabounce brought joy and awe to charity events, television, and festivals worldwide. Despite a flawless safety record, insurance costs have skyrocketed, and the demand for helium-especially from expanding space programs - has made the technology unsustainable for public use. "Helium is used to replace the rocket fuel so the tanks remain pressurized in space," explains Meadows.
Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcjTQc1LOR765jUXgIXwYM05fksQz3BsRmsXvz6v5JTyYQ4cAXscYSwdtuk2Y5ra0PHjTwT_JAcUV8aV_khN-00LrX6Oz1j6iXPRk8RJJ2nwqiNKZ_NczGinC0U8szUMLnkmkEayw?key=8Q9GUrQtxYKOyKhmaXAqEg
Now, as the program winds down, the team is offering a rare opportunity: fifteen original Parabounce units are available for purchase, most in mint or near-new condition, priced between $1,500-$8,000. Considering the cost of over $30k each to produce, a real bargain.
"This isn't just equipment. It's a piece of history," says Meadows. "For those who want to own a piece of wonder, this is it."
Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXcKnUeOg1oJBP1KCwVJT9tMtbpweVeQTFtAovQOWEIISLakGX_bon3yYvAJk9eXO1PZvmZzAPf9u1CmUzFamE5y0VhGneugFy-EtdoHPxFH8GEjCjIPNec5OTxJlXBU5dXubBGaQA?key=8Q9GUrQtxYKOyKhmaXAqEg
Parabounce will continue to support private buyers and select events for those with the vision - and resources - to keep the dream alive.
For press inquiries, technology and purchase information, or to learn more, visit www.Parabounce.com [https://www.parabounce.com/] or email info@parabounce.com.
About Parabounce
One Giant Leap for Humanity is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to wonder, innovation, and charitable joy. Parabounce has brought smiles to millions - and will continue to inspire, even from the ground.
Image: https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXfkMsA1n7JelS_zOlTVHT6Xqi5Wb0N-NwryCwHxFheHjZb86rM8Hutbyv2hLXSxUoFj8beSEhjA4yxe44G-GClAK2ZV49oY_iextOKNE7oetoJlG5Tb9uqu-J90_ME8CWk0pISDew?key=8Q9GUrQtxYKOyKhmaXAqEg
Media Contact
Company Name: One Giant Leap for Humanity
Contact Person: Steve Meadows
Email:Send Email [https://www.abnewswire.com/email_contact_us.php?pr=end-of-an-era-soaring-helium-costs-force-closure-of-iconic-parabounce]
Country: United States
Website: http://www.parabounce.com
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