Where to Buy Party Supplies and Decorations in Columbia

Party City locations and what they stock in Columbia

Party City has one location in the Columbia area: Party City Costumes at 7620 Two Notch Road, near the intersection with Farrow Road. This store carries balloons, decorations, tableware, costumes, and themed party kits for birthdays, holidays, and special events. Hours vary by season, with extended hours around Halloween and the winter holidays.

The store stocks both everyday party needs and seasonal inventory. During peak seasons like Halloween (August through October) and Christmas (October through December), the selection expands significantly. Outside those windows, the core inventory remains available year-round, though specific themes or character licenses may rotate.

Party City also offers online ordering with in-store pickup at the Two Notch Road location. This option lets you browse the full catalog from home and collect your order within a few hours or the next business day, depending on stock and timing.

Key Takeaways

• Party City's Columbia location is at 7620 Two Notch Road and carries balloons, decorations, costumes, and themed party supplies year-round.
• Seasonal inventory expands during Halloween and Christmas, with the widest selection available August through December.
• You can order online and pick up in-store the same day or next business day if the item is in stock.
• Call ahead during peak seasons to confirm stock on specific items, since popular themes and character licenses sell quickly.

What to expect when you visit

The store is organized by party type and occasion rather than by product category. You'll find birthday sections (with age-specific themes like superhero, princess, or sports), holiday sections (Halloween, Christmas, Easter, Valentine's Day), and general supplies like balloons, streamers, and tableware. Staff can point you toward specific themes or help you build a coordinated look if you describe the party you're planning.

Balloons are a major part of the inventory. Party City sells latex balloons in solid colors and prints, foil balloons in licensed character shapes, and helium-filled balloons ready to take home. Helium fills are available in-store, though pricing and availability depend on current demand. During busy seasons, helium can run low or sell out, so calling ahead is wise if you need a large quantity.

Decorations range from simple paper streamers and tissue paper to elaborate themed backdrops, centerpieces, and hanging installations. Costumes span all ages and include both classic options (witch, vampire, superhero) and current licensed characters from movies and television. Prices vary widely depending on costume quality and complexity.

Planning ahead for busy seasons

Halloween is Party City's busiest season. Inventory fills the store by mid-August, and popular costumes and decorations sell out by late September. If you're shopping for Halloween, aim for August or early September to have the widest selection. The same applies to Christmas decorations and supplies—October through mid-November offers more choice than late November or December.

For smaller occasions like birthday parties, you can usually find what you need year-round, but specific themes tied to current movies or television shows may have limited stock. If you have your heart set on a particular licensed character or theme, calling the store to confirm they have it in stock before you drive over saves time and frustration.

Party City also runs sales and promotions throughout the year. Sign up for their email list or check their website before you shop to see if there are current discounts on the items you need.

Alternatives if Party City doesn't have what you need

Several other retailers in Columbia carry party supplies, though usually not with the depth or seasonal variety of Party City. Dollar stores like Dollar General and Family Dollar stock basic supplies—balloons, streamers, plates, cups, and napkins—at lower prices, but selection is limited and themed options are rare. These work well if you need basics quickly or on a tight budget.

Walmart and Target both have party supply sections with balloons, decorations, and tableware. Their selection is smaller than Party City's but includes some themed options, especially during Halloween and Christmas. Walmart locations in the Columbia area include stores on Devine Street, Garners Ferry Road, and other major corridors.

For custom or high-end decorations, local event planning companies and florists in Columbia can create custom centerpieces, balloon installations, and themed setups. These services cost more but give you a unique look tailored to your event. Search online for "event decorators Columbia SC" or "party planners Columbia SC" to find local options.

Ordering online and shipping options

Party City's website lets you order most items for in-store pickup at the Two Notch Road location. Pickup is usually available within hours during business hours, or by the next business day if you order after closing. Some items ship to your home instead, with delivery times varying based on your location and current shipping volume.

Online ordering is useful if you know exactly what you want and want to avoid a trip to the store, or if you're ordering well in advance of your event. However, if you're browsing for ideas or want to see colors and textures in person before buying, visiting the physical store is usually more helpful.

Tips for shopping on a budget

Party City's prices are higher than dollar stores but lower than specialty event planners. To keep costs down, focus on a few statement decorations (like a large balloon arch or themed backdrop) and fill in with basic supplies from dollar stores. This approach gives you a coordinated look without the full price tag.

Balloons are often the best value for visual impact. A few foil balloons in your party's colors, combined with inexpensive latex balloons, can transform a space. Party City sells balloon pumps and arch-building kits that let you create your own installations rather than paying for pre-made ones.

Shopping off-season also saves money. If you're planning a birthday party in March, for example, you might find Valentine's Day or St. Patrick's Day supplies on clearance that work for your color scheme. Holiday decorations go on sale after the holiday ends, so buying Christmas supplies in January for next year's party saves significantly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Party City in Columbia do helium fills for balloons I bring in?

Party City fills balloons purchased in-store with helium for a per-balloon fee. They typically do not fill balloons you've brought from elsewhere. Call the Two Notch Road location to confirm current pricing and availability, especially during peak seasons when helium demand is high.

Can I return or exchange items if I change my mind?

Party City has a return policy, but specifics vary by item type and whether you have a receipt. Most unused, unopened items can be returned within a set timeframe. Ask about the return policy when you purchase, or check the receipt for details. Call the store if you're unsure whether a specific item is returnable.

How far in advance should I shop for Halloween costumes?

August and early September offer the widest selection. By late September, popular costumes and sizes sell out. If you're shopping in October, you may find limited options or have to settle for less popular choices. For the best selection, shop by mid-September.

Does Party City rent decorations or balloon arches?

Party City primarily sells items rather than renting them. However, they sell balloon arch kits and decorative pieces that you can reuse or repurpose. For rental options, contact local event rental companies in Columbia directly—search online for "party rental Columbia SC" to find businesses that specialize in renting large installations and décor.

What's the best way to learn about Party City has a specific item in stock?

Call the Two Notch Road location directly at their phone number (available on Party City's website or Google Maps). Staff can tell you immediately whether they have a specific costume, decoration, or themed item. This is especially helpful during busy seasons when popular items sell out quickly.