Graduation parties walk a fine line. Too formal, feels like a retirement party vibes. Too loose and suddenly, Uncle Bert is blasting Creed songs from his pick-up truck’s “sound system.” Too awkward with eclectic guests waiting for someone else to head to the potluck buffet. And everything in between.
But graduation is a time to celebrate. Whether you’re throwing a backyard bash for a high school grad or keeping things low–key as you send off your college senior, we’ve got a list of definitely-not-lame party activities that will keep your guests engaged and celebrating.
DIY Photo Booth
No one wants the mustache-on-a-stick photo booth from your cousin’s 2015 wedding. Make a backdrop in school colors, grab some metallic fringe curtains, and set out instant cameras and a smartphone tripod with a ring light. Add the props, like graduation caps, class year signs, or custom message boards.
Pro tip: Create a hashtag for the party so guests can upload their photos and create a real-time digital yearbook.
Memory Lane Walk
Create an interactive timeline of the graduate’s life. String up photos from preschool to present. Include awards, sports jerseys, acceptance letters, doodles from old notebooks, and anything else that shows the journey. This will give everyone, especially family, something personal to connect with…and perhaps make fun of.
Grad-Themed Bingo or Trivia
Custom bingo cards are low-effort and high-reward. Create squares like, “Met the grad in middle school,” “Had class with the grad,” “Saw the grad in diapers,” and some more generic things like, “Has a TikTok account,” or “Attended college.” Have guests walk around the party to find other guests who can check the box.
For trivia, quiz your guests on fun facts about the grad: favorite teachers, weird talent, favorite snacks, or most iconic school moment. Winners can score small prizes like candy, gag gifts, or Dollar Store medals.
“One Last Time” Bucket List
Invite guests to write down fun, outrageous, or heartfelt ideas for the grad to complete before starting their next chapter. Think: “Go on a road trip,” “Do the Burger Challenge at [insert restaurant name here],” “Sleep in until 2 p.m. with no regrets,” or “Spend an entire day in a movie theater.” Pin these suggestions to a board for everyone to see and for the grad to check off later.
Interactive Food & DIY Stations
Potlucks tend to be the norm (especially for high school graduation parties), but it doesn’t have to be a line of crock pots and sweating cheeses. Try a taco bar or a pasta bar. Or a DIY s’mores tray (light up that backyard bonfire!). Create a DIY mocktail (or cocktail for those of age) mixing station, cupcake and cookie decorating, or a massive charcuterie board with all the fixin’s.
Another idea: Match the food to the grad’s next adventure: college-themed snacks, travel-inspired bites, or even dorm-room delicacies.
Advice Jar or Video Booth
Set up a spot where guests can leave a piece of advice, a wish, or a funny memory for the grad. This can be as simple as a stack of index cards or as high-tech as a private video booth setup. Either way, it’s something the grad can look back on.
Grad Roast
If your crowd is close-knit (or you’re moving into the “after hours” portion of the party), invite everyone to “roast” the grad. Think: embarrassing stories, inside jokes, and playful jabs. Follow every roast with a round of heartfelt toasts to balance it out. Just make sure the roast-master knows where the line is.
Truth or Dare: Grad Edition
Once the crowd thins out and the vibes are right, break out a grad-themed version of Truth or Dare. You can write custom prompts and toss them into two jars (one for truth, one for dare). Keep them fun. Some examples:
Truth:
- Did you ever cheat on a test? Which one?
- Who was your biggest crush?
- What was your most embarrassing moment?
Dare:
- Text your favorite teacher.
- Look at your oldest social media post and read it aloud to the group.
- Recite your graduation speech in your best British accent.
Keep that energy going. Bust out the nostalgia. And end the night with the kind of laughter that makes your face hurt.
Conclusion
No matter how you celebrate, the best graduation parties are the ones that are personal. It’s less about impressing guests and more about honoring the person who just survived finals, cafeteria pizza, and a lifetime of group projects. Help your guests skip the small talk and lean into activities that bring people together, make the grad feel special, and keep the party rolling.
Kadi McDonald is a freelance writer, marketing strategist, and proud Cleveland sports fan.
