Abstract: A lighter than air lighting device is disclosed comprising a dual envelope balloon providing an inner, gastight, elastic, transparent, expandable polymeric envelope such as polyurethane, containing a lighter than air medium such as helium, and a replaceable lighting device such as a halogen or arc lamp. The helium thus functions to both elevate and cool the lighting device. The inner, transparent envelope is surrounded by an outer envelope such as a colored silk or nylon which functions as a diffuser to provide sufficient illumination without dazzling the user. The outer envelope may also be used to carry information and advertizing messages.