Helium balloons were common and inexpensive prior to 1996 [1]. Even today, when helium prices are high, the cost of helium is not prohibitive for consumer ball

Helium balloons were common and inexpensive prior to 1996 [1]. Even today, when helium prices are high, the cost of helium is not prohibitive for consumer balloons. [1] Source: Was alive and attended birthday parties.