A321
Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Situational Awareness
Inflight Event / Encounter Object
Flight Crew Landed As Precaution; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; General Maintenance Action
Environment - Non Weather Related; Human Factors
Passing approximately 8000 feet we hit some balloons that were tied together. ATC was informed.  All aircraft and engine parameters were normal; but we elected to return to [departure airport] for an inspection.  Dispatch was notified by ACARS; and Operations by voice.  A normal landing was conducted; below max landing weight. A follow up call to Dispatch was made; along with a maintenance write up.
Climbing out at approximately 8000 feet encountered what appeared to be two groups of birthday balloons. One group went above us and the other passed the FO's (First Officer) window. I heard a muffled pop and felt a slight jolt. Engine indications were normal. Capt decided to return for an inspection. Remains of multiple balloons were found in the right engine.
A321 flight crew reported returning to departure airport after encountering what appeared to be party balloons climbing through 8;000 ft. Remains of multiple balloons were found in the right engine.