EXPERIENCE THE WORLD FROM THE INSIDE OUT!
The Earth Balloon is a unique 19-foot high, 22-foot wide inflatable, interactive teaching tool designed to engage students in geography, culture, environmental sciences, and more!
This immersive experience allows learners to explore the world from inside the globe, making education both fun and memorable.
- Made of 24 panels, each representing a time zone
- Zipper for entry along the international dateline
- Uses over 2,000 high-resolution NASA satellite images with oceans, deserts, and other landmarks labeled
- Accommodates up to 30 students per session
- Comes in a giant duffel and a carrying case for the blower
- Easy set-up and tear-down
What's included
Optional facilitation services
You can choose to either have your own teachers lead the Earth Balloon sessions or request a facilitator for an additional fee.
K-12 curriculum kit, instructional video, and laser pointer
We provide interactive curriculum ideas to make learning fun and effective!
Comes with instructional video to help prepare teachers and students for what to expect.
Use of laser pointer to identify continents, oceans, landmarks, and more.
Delivery to schools & organizations within a 30-mile radius of Matthews, NC
If your school or organization is within 30 miles of Matthews, NC, we will deliver the Earth Balloon to you. Outside of this radius? Submit an inquiry below.
Set-up and demonstration
Our trained experts will inflate the Earth Balloon for you, show you how it works, and go over some basic safety features.
Use of 'all-world flag', pole, and base with any multi-day rental
To recognize the various cultures represented in your school or organization, you will also receive a beautiful all-world flag with a pole and base to display outside the Earth Balloon.
Tear-down and pick-up at end of rental period
At the end of your rental period, our team will come to you. At that time, we'll inspect the Earth Balloon for damages, deflate and pack it up.
Support services
We're here to support you every step of the way. Our dedicated support team is available to answer your questions and provide guidance throughout your learning journey.
what's required
Signed liability waiver
You will need one point of contact at your school or organization to sign a liability waiver for the period of time the Earth Balloon is in your possession.
Fully refundable security deposit for damages
The Earth Balloon is durable but not indestructible. Due to its high value, we charge a $1,000 fully refundable security deposit in case any damages occur.
Indoor use and ceiling height requirements
The Earth Balloon MUST remain indoors and requires at least a 17-foot ceiling.
Care and respect for the Earth Balloon
Everyone who enters the Earth Balloon must take off their shoes and may not carry any sharp objects.
Curious and open minds!
To get the most out of the Earth Balloon, it's best to approach it with curiosity and an open mind. This will ensure a memorable experience for everyone. At Smile Big World, we believe in asking good questions, lifting one another up, and smiling big!
rental packages*
1-Day Rental
$850; add $500 with facilitation
Up to 250 students; 8 sessions/day @ 30 minutes each. Or can be used for special events & celebrations!
In-house field trip price for rental with facilitation = $6 per student
2-Day Rental
$1,250; add $850 with facilitation
Up to 500 students; 8 sessions/day @ 30 minutes each.
In-house field trip price for rental with facilitation = $5 per student
1 Week Rental
$1,900/week facilitation not available
Use the Earth Balloon for an entire week (Monday-Friday). Most flexible option - ideal for large organizations or conferences. Use included curriculum or your own.
*No more than 30 students allowed in the Earth Balloon per session.
video gallery - SEE THE EARTH BALLOON IN ACTION!
Earth Balloon Demo
Earth Balloon Overview
Earth Balloon Set-Up
Earth Balloon Inside
About Smile Big World
I named my business 'Smile Big World' in honor of my brother who passed away in 2002. He notoriously signed all of his letters, 'Smile Big' from wherever he was in the world. Shaped by our family's values including curiosity, creativity, and compassion for others, they serve as part of the foundation of this business.