Welcome all, Taylor Hall here, I hope you’re having a wonderful day where ever you are.
I graduated in the spring of last year (2023) from college, but I had been planning my graduation party for what seemed like years since I started school. By the time graduation came around, I was so excited; all the planning and excitement had culminated to this point. I was so excited!
The biggest thing for me though is school, to that point, had been my home for the past four years!!! High school or college graduation signifies the end of a part of your life that hopefully you loved. I know I did, so go out with an absolute bang of a graduation party. Invite your friends and family, reminisce on all the good times, and make lasting memories. If you are an anxious upcoming graduate or parent looking for ideas, I am here to help you out.
Knowing what I know now I have curated a list of 15 graduation party ideas that range from easy and inexpensive to blowing a hole in your purse and knocking the socks off everyone there. Join me was we walk through 15 amazing ideas to curate the best graduation party for high school or college graduation alike.
Add some flair with personalized designed signs from charming chalkboard messages to personalized banners to yard signs, a sign can add a touch of personality and be a great keepsake for later on. You can make signs to give directions or create a photo booth backdrop with a custom-made sign featuring the graduate’s name and graduation year. Get crafty with DIY signs using wooden pallets or repurposed frames for a rustic touch.
Supplies to add to your Graduation Party Checklist:
- Chalkboard Sign
- Custom Door Year Banners (multiple color options)
- Custom Door Year Banners (gold & black)
- Personalized Yard Signs
- Graduation Welcome Sign
- Large Graduation Banner for Fence (multiple color options)
This is what I did, and for me it was the best way to ensure you go out with a bang like said before. Depending on how many friends you want to have a joint party with, be mindful of the space needed to host everyone. Remember, your five friends you plan on hosting with’s family and friends may not be able to fit in your backyard.
I can say from personal experience this is an exceptional idea. I still remember one of my friends graduation parties where they posted photos of many of their college and childhood memories to celebrate graduation. You can make the photos randomized or make a chronological path for guests to walk through, highlighting big milestones or your favorite experiences. In addition to making it very personalized, it is also extremely entertaining for guests to search through photos (and look for themselves among the photos).
Supplies to add to your Graduation Party Checklist:
- Photo Banner with School Years
- Fairy String Lights with Clips to Hang Pictures
- Wall Adhesive Clips to Hang Pictures
- Wooden Clothes Pins
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If your stuck on decor for the party one of the simplest things to do is to decorate using your schools colors- napkins, plates, tablecloths, banners – anything can easily fit into the theme of your party if you have a color palate inspired by your school. If your not a big fan of the color combo from your school or it is not something easy to find- metallic colors like gold or silver are always an good option that is simple and sophisticated.
Supplies to add to your Graduation Party Checklist:
- Confetti Balloon Pack (multiple color options)
- Congrats Grad Banner (multiple color options)
- Congrats Grad Table Cover (multiple color options)
- Gold Foil Fringe Backdrop Curtains (multiple color options)
- Graduation Party Plastic Backdrops (multiple color options)
- Graduation Party Decor and Tableware (multiple color options)
- Graduation Door Entrance Decorations
- Metallic Themed Tableware
Balloon arches can serve as the perfect captivating focal point for photos. Keep it in the theme of the party by choosing balloons in the school colors or opt for a metallic finish for those color combos that might not go with anyones outfit. You can DIY your arch with a balloon garland kit or enlist some professional help depending on your budget, either way it is sure to be a valuable addition to your party decor.
Supplies to add to your Graduation Party Checklist:
- Balloon Arch Kit
- Confetti Balloon Pack (multiple color options)
- Multi-sized Balloon Packs in different colors
- Class of 2024 Balloons
- “2024” Balloons
- “Congrats Grad” Balloons
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If your school colors, metallics, or balloons are not your style, flowers are an easy beautiful option to decorate your space. Flowers can add gorgeous natural beauty as centerpieces and complement the spring season. You can even incorporate your school colors, metallics, or balloons with the flowers for creative and unique additions that are sure to elevate the party mood. I would suggest artificial flowers over live flowers- no one will notice, they are much more budget friendly, there are SO many options, and best of all, reusable.
Supplies to add to your Graduation Party Checklist:
- Hanging Flower Wall
- Artificial Flower Bundles (multiple color options)
- Mixed Eucalyptus Leave Bundles
- Artificial Flowers Combo Box (multiple color options)
- Tall Glass Cylinder Vases
Taking the party outdoors to any degree is a great idea. For an evening party especially, you can create a cozy and beautiful ambiance that will be the talk of the town. Draping string lights outdoors to create a gorgeous area for guests to hang out in your backyard. Indoors or outdoors marquee lights are the PERFECT decor addition for a graduation party and photo opportunity.
Supplies to add to your Graduation Party Checklist:
This one probably doesn’t even need explaining, but your guests will definitely appreciate some outside cover, rain or shine. This is especially great if you want to take the party fully outdoors, or just clear out the crowded house some and encourage people to hang out in the backyard. Placing some tables underneath the tent will help to promote mingling among guests and provide an extra space for guests to relax and socialize.
Supplies to add to your Graduation Party Checklist:
- 10 x 10 Canopy Tent
- 10 x 20 Outdoor Canopy w/ Sidewalls
- 10 x 30 Pop Up Canopy Tent w/ Sidewalls
- 6-Foot Foldable Table – You might as well order a few, who knows how many you are going to end up needing.
- Foldable Chairs – 10 Pack of affordable foldable chairs perfect for any gathering, indoors or out.
Space can be really tough for parties depending on the size of the location your party is at. If it is possible, I would suggest opening up the garage for additional space. This requires no setting up of tents and provides shelter from the elements without any effort on your part. Place a few chairs, some decor, or games and it can serve as an additional space for guests to hang out.
As they say a dry wedding just isn’t as fun. While this might not be the best idea for a high school graduation, drinks will do wonders to add some life to the party at a college graduation party. You don’t even have to break the bank if you focus on a couple drinks, it will truly get the celebration going.
Supplies to add to your Graduation Party Checklist:
Sandwiches are such a easy option for party food. You can get a large platter with different options that are sure to satisfy every palate. Sandwiches are a simple option that are versatile enough for any occasion. Create a build-your-own sandwich bar with a variety of breads, meats, cheeses, and toppings for guests to customize themselves or opt for a platter from your favorite sandwich place. Either way, with their simplicity, convenience, and crowd-pleasing appeal, sandwiches are the ultimate party food that will leave your guests coming back for more.
BBQ is another great classic, just like sandwiches, that is sure to be enjoyed by all guests. Fire up your own grill or consider catering if that’s all you can fit into the busy party schedule. Regardless BBQ is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that never disappoints. From smoky ribs and juicy burgers to tender brisket and flavorful grilled veggies, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Serve up a variety of BBQ sauces and sides like coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread to complete the meal and you can’t go wrong for your graduation party.
If making food or getting food is too busy to add to the agenda for your party planning, you can also opt for a food truck rental. This offers a unique and top-tier food experience for guests with a variety of options that is sure to please everyone. While this might be on the more pricey side, it is a graduation celebration! You only graduate once so as they say- go big or go home!
This is another great idea if you are looking to take some or all of the party outdoors. Some of my favorite lawn games are things like cornhole, giant jenga, giant connect four, bocce ball, or horseshoes. The friendly competition and laughter that fill the air will create a vibrant party vibe and keep guests entertained as they raise their glasses to the graduate’s success.
Supplies to add to your Graduation Party Checklist:
- Block Tower Game – This is a oversized Jenga game
- Bocce Ball
- Cornhole Set – My personal favorite and a worthy addition to any gathering.
- Giant Connect Four
- Horse Shoe
- Ring Toss
For those evening and night parties, this is a great idea if you want an aspect of the party outdoors. A bonfire brings warmth and a touch of magic to any get-together. Guests can gather around the fire, toasting marshmallows, sharing stories, and celebrating the graduate. The addition of a bonfire adds an extra layer of excitement and charm, making your graduation truly unforgettable.
Supplies to add to your Graduation Party Checklist:
- 48″ Round Fire Ring – If you don’t have one already, be sure to create or buy a fire ring to contain the flames.
- Bamboo Sticks – Pack of x120 30″ Sticks
- Metal Roasting Sticks
- Odorless Fire Starter Squares
If the thought of planning a big party is too much for you and you’re looking for a smaller gathering, an intimate dinner party, indoors or outdoors, with close friends might be the way to go. This can make you’re life a little easier if you choose to go the simple route since you are hosting less people; however, if you still want to go out with a bang, you can certainly make it a dinner party to remember.
These graduation party ideas encompass a range of themes and activities to suit any graduate’s preferences and budget. Whether you’re aiming for a casual gathering or an extravagant affair, there’s something here for everyone to enjoy and make lasting memories on this special occasion. Just remember, this celebration is about you, the graduate, and celebrating your accomplishments so whoever is making the plans- do what makes you happy! Happy Graduation!
