For Isla’s 12th birthday, we turned our carport into a neon glow party space with UV lights, a balloon ceiling and plenty of colourful details. Here’s how we put it together, from the decorations and treat table to the activities her friends enjoyed.
What we used for Isla’s glow party
- Black plastic film for the party space
- UV blacklights and smaller UV lights for the tables
- 200 helium-filled glow balloons, plus balloons for our DIY arch
- Personalised banners, bunting, treat labels and black tablecloths
- Glow temporary tattoos, face paint and bubble wands
- LED glasses and headbands, glow sticks and bracelets
Create the Ultimate DIY Glow Space
To set the perfect ambience for Isla's Glow Party, we created a dark space where the glow effects really shone. We transformed our carport into a magical party zone by hanging black plastic film on the walls and ceiling. This instantly created a mysterious and immersive atmosphere.
Ventilation was key. We used a portable air conditioner in one corner and cut a small hole in the black plastic for the exhaust pipe. This kept everyone cool and comfortable while still maintaining the dark environment.
Once the space was dark, it was time to bring on the glow! We positioned UV blacklights around the area. Smaller UV wands sat on the tables and a larger blacklight illuminated the room. As soon as guests stepped inside, they were greeted by glowing colours everywhere — a truly magical experience.
UV-reactive, glow-in-the-dark and LED accessories
These work differently. UV-reactive materials need a UV blacklight to produce their fluorescent effect. Glow sticks produce their own light once activated, while LED accessories use batteries. Other glow-in-the-dark products may need charging under light first. Bright colours alone do not guarantee a glow, so check the product description and try a sample under your party lights before buying everything.
Our photos show the effect in our particular space. Choose lighting to suit your room and follow the light manufacturer’s instructions. Keep the space ventilated and leave doorways clear when adding dark backdrops.
Create a Glow in the Dark Balloon Ceiling
One of the standout decorations at Isla’s party was our DIY Glow in the Dark Balloon Ceiling. This was an absolute showstopper and is surprisingly achievable at home.
We filled 200 glow balloons with helium from Helium 2 Go, then arranged them throughout the room. The white balloon ribbons made the balloons look like they were floating mid-air.
Tip: In warm weather, helium balloons are more likely to pop. Store them in another room before the party to keep them cool.
And always wear safety glasses when inflating balloons — better safe than sorry!
How to Hang Party Banners & Decorations
Banners are a key element for bringing any theme together. For our Glow Party, we centred the main cake table with a Personalised Neon Glow Banner using tips from our banner hanging guide.
- We used Blu-Tack for our wall banners. Check that your chosen fixings suit the surface and the weight of your decorations
- We strung customised flag bunting across the room using fishing line
- We created a DIY balloon arch using an air compressor (much faster than a balloon pump!)
The result was a professional, party-ready setup that looked fantastic in photos.
Easy & Delicious Glow in the Dark Party Treats
The main treat table glowed beautifully on black tablecloths with bright neon bunting. We created a cupcake tower using Coles Pre-Made Cupcakes — super easy and they looked amazing with neon toppers.
Other treats included:
- Easy iced biscuits
- White marshmallows & milk bottle lollies that glowed under UV
- Mini Mentos with Neon personalised stickers
- Swirly lollipops & chocolate bars
- Glow stones instead of confetti — they looked magical!
The Esky was even filled with Mini Waters decorated using Neon Glow Water Labels.
Fun Activities & Glow Party Games
For tweens, party activities are everything! We set up two themed activity tables that kept the girls busy all night.
Table 1: Neon Creative Station
- Glow temporary tattoos
- Face paint & brushes
- Mega bubble wands with custom labels
Table 2: LED Dress Ups
- LED glasses
- LED cat ear headbands
- Glow sticks, necklaces & butterfly hair clips
- Glow bracelets & rings
The kids looked incredible glowing under the UV lights. They danced, took selfies and had the BEST night.
Personalised Neon Glow Party Supplies
The personalised decorations shown here are available through our Brisbane-based store, Katie J Design & Events. Our Neon Glow Collection is perfect for Neon Disco, Tween Birthdays, School Disco Nights, and UV Glow Parties.
- Personalised banners
- Bunting
- Invites
- Loot bags
- Drink labels & chocolates
- Custom stickers & favours
All items are made here in Australia, with fast shipping available to QLD, NSW, VIC, WA, SA, NT, TAS, plus New Zealand and the USA.
We used a large UV blacklight and smaller table lights for this setup. Check which items are UV-reactive before ordering, and test the lighting in your own space.
Capturing the Memories
To make sure we remembered this magical night, we hired Julie’s Photography who took amazing party photos. She captured the excitement, the decorations and all the moments in between.
I loved creating this party for Isla and sharing it with you. I hope our photos and ideas inspire your own Neon Glow celebration!
With a bit of creativity and some DIY magic, you can create a glowing, unforgettable experience for your family and friends. Happy party planning!
FAQ: Glow in the Dark Party Ideas
Do I need a UV blacklight for a Glow Party?
You need a UV blacklight for UV-reactive decorations. Glow sticks and battery-powered LED accessories produce their own light. Not all balloons, clothes or food will fluoresce, so test the items you plan to use.
What colours work best at Glow Parties?
White and neon colours can look striking against black backgrounds, but the glow depends on the material rather than the colour alone. Look for products labelled UV-reactive and test them with your lighting.
Can I host a Glow Party at home?
Absolutely! Bedrooms, garages, carports and living rooms can be transformed with black plastic film, UV lights and balloons.
Where do you ship?
We’re based in Brisbane, Australia and ship Australia wide plus New Zealand and the USA.
Where can I buy Glow Party supplies?
Our full Neon Glow Collection is here: https://www.katiejdesignandevents.com.au/collections/neon-glow-decorations
More ideas for your celebration
- How many balloons do you need?
- Set up a birthday banner backdrop with balloons
- Easy iced party biscuits
Customer Service
April 30, 2025
Thank you for your Enquiry. This is the link to our Neon Glow Party Collection: https://www.katiejdesignandevents.com.au/collections/neon-glow-decorations