Outdoor Graduation Party Ideas

Nothing turns up the fun like a little friendly competition. Set up lawn games throughout the backyard to encourage guests (and the graduate) to play, interact and let loose. You can also create fun zones with different yard games, like cornhole in one corner of the yard and a classic game of croquet in the other.

One of the best ways to get people off their feet is to turn up the music and dance. A temporary dance floor, set up on the lawn or patio area, is an ideal way to upgrade the party. Whether your event is more formal or you've opted for a casual cookout, carving out space for a dance floor will ensure the party lasts a little longer.

A key part of a good party is offering people plenty of space to move around. Using your deck as a spot to host drink and food tables is a great way to make sure guests don't linger in one place for too long. A covered deck can also provide shaded area and seating for those who need a break from the sun.

While the theme may seem obvious at an outdoor graduation party,
feel free to get creative with decor. Black and gold are a great way to celebrate the milestone while elevating the scenery, but you may choose to go all out in the graduate's favorite colors. Whatever you choose, be sure to stay on theme. Think: desserts, drinks and decor all in the same color scheme and aesthetic.

A tightknit, intimate family celebration can be the best way to commemorate your graduate's achievement. Take the party up to your rooftop, decorate the balcony or gather with a few loved ones in a backyard. A few simple decorations can create just the right vibe.

Huge milestones such as high school, college and graduate school graduations may call for a big party. If you have the space, and the guest list, consider setting up canopy tents with ample, spaced out seating. Not only can the tents bring an upgraded look to the party, but they can also protect partygoers from heavy sun or any raindrops.

Just because it's hosted outdoors, doesn't mean your graduation party needs to include paper plates or plastic serveware. If your graduate prefers an elegant celebration, consider hosting a small garden party where guests can dine in semi-formal style with sophisticated tableware. Try an afternoon tea party for elementary or middle schoolers or opt for a sit-down dinner with a toast for the college graduate. Keep it simple and let seasonal flowers be the centerpiece.

Few things capture the fun of a party better than photos. Whether you build or buy a photobooth of
your own, set up a designated area for photos complete with props like silly glasses, hats and more. Guests can get creative and have pictures to keep long after the party is over.

If you're planning to host a graduation party in the evening, or you just intend for your daytime soiree to last into the night, lighting is essential. In addition to your everyday outdoor lighting, consider hanging outdoor string lights. They'll not only provide extra lighting, but they'll add an element of sophistication to the event.

Sure, memories last forever, but guests love a good party favor. Make your backyard graduation party memorable with festive favors. Personalized beach buckets are a great way for little graduates to mark the start of summer, while potted plants like succulents are ideal for decorating dorm rooms or first apartments for future college students.

Balloons are a simple way to proclaim there's a party. From giant balloon arches set up at an outdoor entrance to statement makers that decorate the backyard, balloons make it easy to decorate and transform an outdoor space into a festive party.