The Best Disco Balls For Your Next Party
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Nothing sets the stage for a party quite like a disco ball. Also known as a “mirror ball” or “glitter ball,” the spherical, hanging object first appeared in nightclubs during the Roaring Twenties, though it really gained prominence during the disco era of the Seventies (hence its name). These days, disco balls are seen in everything from karaoke rooms to dorm rooms, and of course, in clubs and lounges too. Justin Timberlake famously steps on a disco ball in his album cover for “FutureSex/LoveSounds,” while one of Neil Young’s best albums is literally called “Mirror Ball.” Everyone from Lady Gaga to Beyonce to Drake have used disco balls in their music videos and motifs, and the shimmery accessory has inspired entire disco ball-themed fashion collections, with party dresses, jewelry and footwear all sharing the glittery and glamorous look and feel.
Typically made by gluing hundreds of tiny mirrored tiles around a foam, cardboard or plastic “ball,” a disco ball is a fine piece of decor on its own, but it really shines — pun intended — when light is directed at it. Each facet reflects light back into the air, casting it into dozens of small beams that stream out in all directions. Pair the disco ball with a motor and watch as it spins the light around the room, creating a unique, magical effect. The largest disco balls have mirrored surfaces that can fill an entire room with a warm glow, making them ideal for school dances, weddings and other big parties.
It’s not just for use at night though — the best mirror balls are great during the day too, say, hanging from your bedroom or patio to stream sunlight into your room. Disco balls also make great props for your next photoshoot or Halloween costume. And some people also swear by mirror balls outdoors to keep birds away from their garden (the birds are often scared off by the reflective surfaces).
Whatever you use a disco ball for, we’ve rounded up some of the most popular options you can get online. Stock up for your next party or for your next DIY project, to really add some glitter and glam to your decor or look.
1. Eliminator Lighting Mirror Ball
If you want to set the mood for your next party, dance or event, you’ll want to install this disco ball from Eliminator Lighting.
Known for their party lighting and accessories, the company has crafted a high-end mirror ball, made from hundreds of quarter-inch reflective glass tiles that surround a durable cardboard core.
At 12 inches, this is the largest ball on our list, and the size makes it ideal for medium to large-sized rooms and venues. A motor ring allows you to pair the disco ball with an external motor (not included) to set it to spin around (and around_. A loop on the top makes this ball easy to hang from the ceiling.
2. Rhode Island Novelty Mirror Ball
This shimmery mirror ball measures eight inches in diameter (about the size of a mini basketball or small kickball) and delivers a lot of light for its size. The ball features bright silver tiles glued around a hollow styrofoam core; the styrofoam makes this disco ball super light weight and it comes in at just 14 ounces.
Hang it easily using the included top loop, or use this mirror ball as part of your next costume or art project (an elegant scepter anyone?)
Spacing is consistent and the tiles are all the same color, making the light more even.
3. ADJ Products Mirror Ball
This disco ball goes as hard as you do, thanks to its solid construction, durable plastic core, and hundreds of mini reflective panels that line its exterior shell. The mirror ball measures eight inches in diameter and comes with a thick top hook for hanging. What you get: warm, radiant, glowing light.
At just under two pounds, this is the heaviest mirror ball on our list. But that just means it won’t fly off the hook or be blown around as it’s hanging from the ceiling. While some of the lightweight disco balls are best for one-time-use, this one can be easily stored and reused thanks to its solid construction.