20 Outdoor Graduation Party Ideas Every Grad Will Love

This post is about outdoor graduation party ideas.

Source: Lulus

It’s graduation party season!

Graduation party season, while wonderfully filled with delicious food and gatherings, can be quite the task when you’re planning it on your own. 

Outdoor graduation parties are some of the most popular graduation party venues. Everyone loves getting together outdoors, and there’s no venue fees with a party that’s in your backyard ;)! 

This post shows you the absolute best outdoor graduation party ideas. After reading this post, you’ll have a better handle on all aspects of your (soon to be) fantastic outdoor graduation party. 

Here are 20 outdoor graduation party ideas you’re guaranteed to love. 

A photo wall adds a special touch of personalization to your party. You can DIY this outdoor graduation party idea with two affordable items: a grid wall and printed photos. Round up your favorite pics of your grad and head to your local print shop. Then, arrange them on the grid with painter’s tape or mini clothespins. If you want a larger banner backdrop, Etsy offers tons of custom options! 

Recreate it!

2. Balloon arch

A balloon arch is a go-to outdoor graduation party idea that makes a statement! I love how you can customize these to fit the theme of your party, like your college colors. These balloon arches look super elevated and upscale, but they’re surprisingly budget-friendly!

Recreate it!

3. HANGING LIGHTS

Hanging lights between trees or other structures is a great way to add some flare to your party – it’s a stylish option for outdoor graduation decorations! 

These look great during the day, but even better when it gets a little darker. If you’re planning your outdoor grad party for later in the day, these are perfect! 

Recreate it!

4. JAR OF LIGHTS

Recreate it!

5. PHOTO BOOTH

All of your friends that come to the party will love the Instagram opportunity, too! There are so many ways to style one, but my favorite is flowers.

Recreate it!

6. CHALKBOARD SIGNS

Recreate it!

7. FLORAL CENTERPIECES

Recreate it!

RELATED: THE MOST POPULAR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION PARTY DECORATING IDEAS

8. S’MORES STATION

Perfect for adults and kids! Everyone will love this interactive food. 

Recreate it!

Etsy

9. REFRESHMENTS

These containers keep bugs out, and are much more functional and very cute compared to a standard bowl! Add a little more pizzaz by having a cute plastic cup option like these glitter ones below.

Here’s a festive idea: create a beverage menu (alcoholic or not) themed after your college or high school! 

Recreate it!

10. CUPCAKE DISPLAY

We did this at my grad party, and it was definitely a crowd pleaser. 

Recreate it!

Recreate it!

12. GIANT PONG

Giant pong is perfect if you have a large backyard or large grass area at your venue. It was such a hit at my graduation party, and is the perfect outdoor graduation party idea for guys.

Recreate it!

RELATED: 23 FANTASTIC GRADUATION PARTY IDEAS FOR GUYS YOU’RE GUARANTEED TO LOVE

13. BEAN BAG TOSS

You can buy the plain one shown below, and paint it like the one shown above to match the theme of your party! 

Recreate it!

14. YARD TWISTER 

This is such an easy and cheap DIY outdoor graduation decorations idea for a game.

Use the bottom of a box to create a perfect stencil to spray paint your twister mat right on to your lawn. 

Create a spinner out of a square of wood and paint or markers.

15. LADDER TOSS

Ladder toss is another classic outdoor graduation party game idea!

So fun for kids and adults!

Perfect for a big yard or venue with a large grassy area.

Recreate it!

16. GIANT CONNECT FOUR

So fun for kids and adults!

Super easy to play and is bound to be a hit with everyone.

Recreate it!

17. BUG SPRAY AND SUNSCREEN

Kids and their families will especially love this, someone always forgets the essentials! 

Recreate it!

18. LIGHT UP GRADUATION SIGN

Recreate it!

19. PAPER LANTERNS AND TASSELS

Tassels are versatile – you could go more rustic or glam. Whatever you choose, they’re bound to be a stylish addition to your graduation decorations.

Recreate it!

20. MOROCCAN STYLE FLOOR SEATING

Recreate it!

THIS POST SHOWED YOU 20 OUTDOOR GRADUATION PARTY IDEAS.

  • 30 Cute Beach Vacation Nails for Warm Weather Inspiration

    No matter your vibe or aesthetic, at least one of these beach vacation nail designs is sure to inspire you!

    Read More
  • St. Patricks Day Party Must-Haves | 34 Best St. Patricks Day Party Ideas

    These are the best classy New Years Eve Party outfits, guaranteed to be picture perfect for the entire night. They’re affordable, some are glittery, some are casual – we have it all! Here’s 20+ show…

    Read More
  • Change Up Your Look with These Stunning 2025 Makeup Trends

    The hottest 2025 makeup trends include Bratz doll-inspired glam, grunge aesthetics, and minimalist clean-girl looks.

    Read More
  • 2025 Fashion Trends: The Styles and Silhouettes You’ll Want to Try

    Revamp your wardrobe with trendy 2025 fashion trends, featuring buttery suede, jewel tones, and milkmaid dresses.

    Read More