Founded by Otto Bischof (RIP) 31 years ago, Balloon King Party Centre continues to reign as Toronto's one-stop party-shopping landmark under the direction of Bischof's wife, Stella. Providing not only awesome helium balloons, the jam-packed shop carries pretty much everything that makes a party look like one: banners, decorations, costumes, party favours. While goods dealing with biggie seasonal events (Halloween, Christmas, Easter) claim most of the spotlight, there's also an extensive selection of gear for university-style benders, including leprechaun hats, Hawaiian leis, grass skirts and flash-prompting Mardi Gras beads. Plus items for less rambunctious events like weddings, anniversaries and baby showers.