Inflatables are, perhaps, accidental examples of classic Americana. From the blow-up Michelin Men that welcomed drivers at gas stations in the 1960s to the bounce castles that populate back yards in the 'burbs, inflatables are a peculiarly American phenomenon.
John Scurlock invented the first inflatable structure in 1959, and soon these fill-ups became synonymous with celebration — inflatable movie screens at proms, swimming pool toys at children's birthday parties, and bounce houses at boozy bachelor events.
Nothing encapsulates pure joy more than party inflatables, which exist in all shapes and sizes, from obstacle courses to Sumo suits to human hamster wheels. And with Wisconsin likely to relax stay-at-home orders in the coming months, expect inflatables to become a hallmark of post-COVID summer parties and, again, the enduring symbol of celebration.
Here are five of our best. Book early to avoid disappointment!
Willie Fun Events specializes in party inflatables for birthdays, bar mitzvahs, bachelorette bashes, and more. We take care of everything from delivery to set-up to pickup. Check out our full-list of bounce houses and inflatables. Or request a quote.
#1. Ferris Wheel Combo
Measuring 20x20x18 feet, our enormous inflatable Ferris Wheel Combo incorporates a bounce house, pop-ups, slide, and climbing frame. It even lights up at night. Perfect for almost any event, from BBQs to birthday parties, our Ferris Wheel Combo is an ice-breaker, party-starter, and Instagram photo op.
#2 Urban Jungle Obstacle Course
It's a summer of sport, with the should've-happened-last-year Olympics now planned for July. Our Urban Jungle Obstacle Course adds a competitive element to your first summer backyard event, with its double-lane pop-up course, rock wall, steep climb and balance beams. At 105x13x26 feet, it's possibly the largest obstacle course in Wisconsin.
Party planning tip: Split party guests into teams and hand out a prize to the group that completes the course in the fastest time. Make things even more competitive by encouraging the losing team to donate to a local good cause.
#3. Mickey Mouse Bounce House
The classic bounce house takes on a Disney twist with Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto, Goofy, and Daisy on its walls. This kid-friendly inflatable makes the ultimate addition to a summer children's birthday party or after-school event.
Party planning tip: Host a Disney-themed summer party with this bounce house as the star attraction. Encourage guests to dress up as their favorite Disney characters. (Expect lots of Elsas!)
#4. Giant Twister
The classic board game becomes an inflatable! Our Giant Twister measures 15x15x4 feet, making it a good fit for medium- and large-sized backyard events this summer. The rules are simple: Spin the wheel and don't fall!
#5. Tropic Thunder Extreme Water Slide
The longest (and tallest) water slide you'll find in Milwaukee! Our Tropic Thunder Extreme Water Slide measures 68x15x27' and comes with double-lane slides, perfect for when things become competitive at your next event.
Before You Go
Inflatables have come a long way since the gas station Michelin Man. From enormous water slides to Mickey Mouse bounce houses, the blow-ups on this list add some fun to your first post-COVID summer party.
Willie Fun Events is your go-to source for inflatables this summer, with a range of party essentials you won't find anywhere else. See a list of our bounce houses and inflatables. Or get a quote.