Ready, set, launch! The Balloon Rocket Race is an exciting hands-on activity that doubles as a fun game and a simple science experiment. Kids will use balloons to power rockets along a string, learning about air pressure, force, and motion along the way.
This activity is perfect for siblings or friends to compete and see whose balloon travels the fastest—or longest! It’s quick to set up, low cost, and full of energy. Plus, it sparks curiosity about how things move and what makes them go faster or farther.
Materials Needed
• Balloons (1 per player)
• String (about 6–10 feet per race track)
• Straws (1 per balloon)
• Tape (scotch or masking)
• Chairs, doorknobs, or furniture to tie the string ends to
Tools Needed
• Scissors (for cutting string)
Steps
1. Thread the Straw: Cut a length of string and thread it through a straw.
2. Secure the String: Tie one end to a chair or doorknob and pull it tight to another fixed point.
3. Prepare the Rocket: Inflate a balloon (don’t tie it) and tape it to the straw so the opening faces backward.
4. Countdown and Release: Let go of the balloon and watch it fly along the string!
5. Race and Repeat: Set up multiple tracks or race one at a time. Try changing balloon sizes or shapes to test different results.