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After years of studying, tests, and hard work, graduation sure calls for a celebration! Here we give you graduation party ideas to fuel just the right sets of unique festivities for your 2023 grad. Whether you have a college or high school graduate, girl or guy, you're sure to find inspiration for a party at home or at a venue, from decorations to food. Some are simple purchases from online retailers, others more complex DIY projects, and all are sure to make your graduation feel loved and their achievement well recognized.
To add to the festivities, you'll want to plan out just tight graduation party cake plus your grad's favorite snacks and treats. And don't forget graduation presents to mark this important milestone either (or cash is always a good idea too!). If your grad likes to laugh, consider getting a Friends-inspired photo backdrop and playing the “Ever or Never” game. If you want to get crafty, you might want to try our simple no-bake diploma cookies and easy-to-craft graduation cap bottle toppers.
After all, as Dr. Seuss once said, "The more you learn, the more places you will go!" So time to celebrate all that that learning and all those places to go to come.
1
Vintage College Pennants
Bring a little "old school" flair (see what we did there?) to a high school graduation soiree by decorating with vintage flag pennants from your celebrant's soon-to-be college or university. Smaller styles can be found for between $10 to 25 on Etsy.
Step this classic Dr. Seuss graduation party gift up a notch by using it as a guest book for your shindig. Ask attendees to write well-wishes for the new grad throughout its pages.
3
Origami Money Graduation Cap
Whether this idea serves as a fun craft or a clever way to gift your new grad some cash, you're certain to win points for presentation!
Get the tutorial at Sugar and Charm.
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4
Under $25!
Graduation Party Framed Filmstrip Selfie Frame
This customizable selfie frame will help personalize your photos from the night. Be sure to get one in your school colors!
5
Easy Diploma Cookies
Here's an easy way to serve an on-theme snack: purchase rolled wafer cookies and pass them off as edible diplomas!
Get the tutorial at Tikkido.
Whether they're taking a gap year, plan to study abroad, or have some time to kill before they start their first job, this customizable travel fund box makes for an on-theme way to save any cash they receive as a gift.
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This game is a fun and funny way to look back on all the lessons your grad learned outside the classroom.
8
Everything Bagel Dip
If you're hosting a daytime graduation party, this delicious (and easy to make!) bagel-inspired dip is sure to be a hit.
Get the recipe.
For a funny party favor, have your grad write superlatives for their guests on small take-home trophies using a metallic paint pen.
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10
"One Smart Cookie" Cookie Bar
Celebrate a smartypants grad with a sweet tooth with a clever "One Smart Cookie" cookie bar.
Learn more at Mint Event Design.
Cue "I'll Be There for You" on repeat! Friends fans are definitely going to want this decoration at their grad party.
Pun opportunities abound with a graduation themed candy bar! If you don't feel like making your own signs, purchase this colorful set.
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13
Instant Download
Graduation Family Feud Party Game
13
Instant Download
Graduation Family Feud Party Game
Get the whole crowd involved with this fun Family Feud-style game tailored just for grad parties.
14
Easy Skewer Appetizer
Every good party begins with great appetizers. These easy-to-assemble mozzarella, red pepper, and bacon skewers are sure to be a hit.
Get the recipe.
15
Mortarboard Ice Cream Cake
Give your recent grad a cake to remember: One that looks just like their commencement cap. This giant ice cream sandwich is decorated with a licorice string tassel.
Get the recipe.
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16
Bottle Toppers
Elevate everyday bottled drinks with these fun graduation cap toppers.
To make: Craft grad-cap bottle toppers by cutting a strip of craft paper 3/4 inch tall by 4 inches long; tape into a ring. Attach a 2-inch square with glue. Top with a string tassle.
17
Keys to Success
Set out note cards alongside vintage keys, and encourage guests to jot down their "keys to success" for the guest of honor.
Add these gold graduation cap decorations to floral centerpieces, or use them as cupcake toppers.
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19
Giant Balloon Messages
Looking for a crafty way to show off your (or your loved one’s) grad year? We can’t stop swooning over these balloon messages.
See the tutorial at Studio DIY.
Celebrate the end of an era by lining up numbered pinatas to create the grad year. Or, opt for a single four to memorialize four years of high school or college coming to an end.
