High school graduation is a huge milestone for child and parent alike. Honor this accomplishment with a grad party you and your child will always remember. We’ve gathered 7 backyard graduation party ideas to help you celebrate your honoree in style.
Whether your teen wants an extravagant themed party or a subtle soirée filled with their new school colors, PartySlate has real event inspiration to guide you from start to finish. From chic décor to personalized treats, make your graduate feel loved with these unique graduation party ideas.
1. Take Your Theme To A New Level
An extraordinary party theme will make your graduation party one to remember. These days, the possibilities are endless with creative themes. Peruse some of our favorite unique party themes that will set your child’s party apart from the crowd.
2. Make It A Pool Party
Graduation inevitably falls on the hottest months of the year in many places, so why not make it a pool party. Centering your celebration around your backyard pool opens up so many creative opportunities for floating pool décor.
3. Go Wild With Balloons
Balloon décor continues to evolve and impress (see why matte balloons made our top party trend predictions for 2022). Float them in your pool, use them in arches, signage, and so much more. Meet with your event planner and décor company to brainstorm all of the unique ways to include balloons in your celebration.
photographer: La Vie Photography, Minneapolis | Lindsay Piram Creative
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photographer: Carla Ten Eyck Photography | Lifetime Events By Jacqueline
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photographer: Siobhan Stanton | Hollywood POP Gallery
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photographer: Jennifer Tai Photo Artistry | Pink Blossom Events
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4. Make It Personal
Personalized food is so much more fun to eat. Find a caterer who can customize everything from cookies and treats to main dishes that features your child’s graduating year, name, future school colors, and more.
5. Pick Collegiate Centerpieces
Whether you want to incorporate your graduate’s new school colors or keep to your creative theme, centerpieces are a great way to bring your event to life. Florals, candles, and even balloons make exciting centerpieces.
photographer: Show Ready Photo | All Set Events
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photographer: La Vie Photography, Minneapolis | Lindsay Piram Creative
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photographer: Sheri Whitko Photography | Paulette Wolf Events
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photographer: John Simoudis | Jerry Rose Floral & Event Design
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photographer: Linda Barrett | Christina Currie Events, Inc.
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photographer: Alan Phillip | Gilded Group Décor
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photo courtesy of: Despina Craig Events
See More6. Get Everyone Involved
Engage guests with games and interactive elements. Turn your backyard into an amusement park or keep it simple with lawn games. Either way, your child’s graduation celebration will be one to remember.
7. Show Your School Spirit
Incorporate your teen’s future-school colors into the event décor to anticipate the exciting years ahead. For the perfect photo op, consider inviting the university mascot to pose with guests.
People Also Ask …
How do you throw a backyard graduation party?
Throwing a backyard graduation party doesn’t have to be complicated. By hiring an event planner to help you iron out all the details, you will be able to enjoy your graduate’s special occasion without the stress. A design team, photographer, caterer, and other vendors will come together to flawlessly execute all of your plans. PartySlate is your one-stop-shop for all things event planning. Find inspiration, tips, and your event team in one convenient place.
What kind of food do you serve at a graduation party?
First, serve food that your graduate loves. Personalizing your food is also a fun addition to your party. Incorporate your child’s graduating year, new school colors, and even their name on the catering display for a unique and easy way to customize your cuisine. Find a caterer that will be able to execute all of your favorite ideas.
For even more graduation party inspiration, check out 30 Graduation Parties — Ideas from Entrances to Favors & Everything in Between.
featured planner
Amy Zaroff Events + Design
We love how the team at Amy Zaroff Events + Design delivers the “wow” factor with interactive and multi-sensory celebrations. The energy Amy brings to her events is evident through the whole planning and execution process. They go above and beyond, creating immersive brand experiences and dazzling social events with long-lasting impact. photographer: Matt Blum Photography