35 Awesome Graduation Party Ideas That Can Still Happen

After more than a year spent largely in the confines of your own home, one thing's for sure: You're going to want to celebrate your 2021 grad and all of their accomplishments, not least of which is making it through a very unique high school or college experience. And the good news: You can do so safely.

If we learned anything from our ongoing coronavirus experiences, it's that there are so many unique ways to honor life's major milestones. If you're still largely isolating, litter your lawn with signs and decorations and host a special drive-by event. Or, opt for a big family Zoom party. But as small gatherings, particularly outdoor ones, become more and more common, a themed backyard cookout is also a great way to toast your son, daughter, or any honoree.

No matter how you choose to celebrate—simply beeping horns, blasting graduation songs, and handing out favor boxes or making a big buffet and eating, drinking, and being merry together—the most important thing is that your event centers on your hardworking grad. The party doesn't have to cost a fortune, either. Depending on the scope of it, expect to spend anywhere from $50 to a few hundred dollars. (More, if you go big with Pinterest-worthy decorations like graduation quotes scrawled on chalkboards, a tent, and a caterer, of course!)

Ready to start planning? Get inspired by these creative graduation party ideas and decorations.