33 Fun and Simple Graduation Party Ideas for 2023

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.

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Under $10!

Oh, the Places You'll Go!  

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Under $10!

Oh, the Places You'll Go!  

Now 61% Off

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.

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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Under $25!

Graduation Party Framed Filmstrip Selfie Frame

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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!

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.

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Adventure Fund Box

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Adventure Fund Box

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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Graduation Party Game

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Graduation Party Game

Now 20% Off

This game is a fun and funny way to look back on all the lessons your grad learned outside the classroom.

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.

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DIY Grad Party Idea

Gold Trophy Awards

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DIY Grad Party Idea

Gold Trophy Awards

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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"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.

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Friends Graduation Banner

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Friends Graduation Banner

Cue "I'll Be There for You" on repeat! Friends fans are definitely going to want this decoration at their grad party.

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Graduation Candy Bar Signs

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Graduation Candy Bar Signs

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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Instant Download

Graduation Family Feud Party Game

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Instant Download

Graduation Family Feud Party Game

Get the whole crowd involved with this fun Family Feud-style game tailored just for grad parties.

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.

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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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.

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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.

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Graduation Centerpiece Toppers

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Graduation Centerpiece Toppers

Add these gold graduation cap decorations to floral centerpieces, or use them as cupcake toppers.

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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.

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Party Piñatas

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Party Piñatas

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.

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