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Tips To Throw A Memorable Graduation Party
Each year, newly minted graduates proudly don their caps and gowns and walk across countless stages to receive their diplomas or degrees. Graduation is a proud moment for students, and that pride is shared by family members and close friends who have supported them throughout their academic careers.
Graduation is a milestone worth celebrating. Planning a graduation party takes some effort to ensure the event is worthy of this significant moment in a student’s life.
Begin with a theme
Hosts can select a theme that aligns with the graduate’s interests. Consider themes tied to what a new high school graduate plans to study in college, or make the theme reflect the career path a recent college graduate hopes to pursue. Additional ideas include the graduate’s favorite movies, musical interests, cherished hobbies, or love of travel.
Set a budget
Establish a clear budget to manage expenses and prioritize key aspects of the celebration. Hosting a party away from home may seem more expensive, but when hosts factor in tent, table, chair, catering, and décor rentals, booking a venue may actually be more affordable. Comparing all potential costs can help party hosts determine the best option and create a realistic budget.
Make the venue interesting If possible, tailor the venue to the theme. For example,
if the graduate loves the ocean and beach, a beach bonfire party can make for a memorable celebration. Graduates who enjoy concerts might appreciate a party that recreates the feeling of a live performance. Hire a musician, set up stadium-style seating, and create a stage where the performer can entertain guests. Afterwards, hire a DJ or stream a playlist created by the guest of honor.
Create a grand entrance
Find a fun way for the graduate to make a memorable entrance. Perhaps the lights can be dimmed before a spotlight shines on the graduate. For a sports-themed celebration, the graduate can run through a breakaway banner similar to a football team taking the field before
Residents Invited To ‘Art In The Park’ Craft Sale
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Town Clerk Rich LaMarca invite residents to the Town’s “Art in the Park” event on Saturday, May 30th from 12pm4pm at Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park & Beach in Oyster Bay (rain date Sunday, May 31st). The event will feature unique handcrafted goods from over 90 local artists and artisans, including paintings, jewelry, ceramics, photography, books, greeting cards and more. A live musical performance will also take place, featuring The Mystic, along with family-friendly activities and offerings from local food trucks. Admission is free.
kickoff. A creative entrance can add excitement and help make the event unforgettable.
Include fun activities
Dancing, photo booth sessions, scavenger hunts, or demonstrations tied to the party theme can keep guests entertained throughout the celebration. Games and interactive activities also can help guests mingle and create lasting memories.
Keep the food simple
Keep the graduate’s favorite foods in mind and offer dishes that are familiar and crowd-pleasing. There is no need to serve elaborate or exotic cuisine; guests are more likely to remember flavorful foods and generous hospitality. A signature cocktail or mocktail also can add a personalized touch to the party.
Capture the memories
Create opportunities for guests to share messages and memories with the graduate. A guest book, memory jar, or instant-photo station can provide keepsakes the graduate will treasure long after the celebration ends.
If the idea of planning a graduation party alone seems daunting, particularly during a busy season when dates and venues book quickly, a professional party planner can be an invaluable resource. With some preparation and creativity, family and friends can celebrate graduates in a way that is both fitting and memorable.
One-Stop Passport Weekend
“We are excited to host ‘Art in the Park’ and connect residents with local artists and artisans. Featuring hand-crafted goods, ceramics, watercolors, glass, jewelry, wood, leather, sculpture, and other beautiful items designed by local vendors, the event will offer something special for everyone and provides the perfect opportunity to purchase a handmade gift while supporting our small businesses,” said Town Clerk LaMarca. “I invite you to stop by ‘Art in the Park’ and bring the entire family, as live music, food trucks, and activities for kids will also be available.”
Division. This year’s event is sponsored by The Gucciardo Law Firm, Extreme Auto Body, Gold Coast Studios, Steel Equities, Action Auto Wreckers, Starkie Bros. Home & Garden, No Limit Ninja Farmingdale, Renewal by Andersen, Oyster Bay Historical Society, NYS Agriculture and Markets, the Waterfront Center and News12 Long Island.
To help residents looking to obtain new passports, Oyster Bay Town Clerk Richard LaMarca announced that his office will offer a special one-stop Passport Weekend on Saturday, June 6th and Sunday, June 7th from 9am to 3pm at both Town Hall North in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South in Massapequa. Residents are required to book appointments in advance.
Requirements for applying for a passport include:
One 2×2 color photograph with a clear view of the applicant’s face against a plain white or light colored background. Photos will also be available for $10 at both Town Halls North and South during Passport Weekend.
Proof of Identity –
Naturalization Certificate, Valid Driver’s License (cannot have been issued or renewed in the last six months), Current Government ID (city, state or federal), Current Military ID (military and dependents).
‘Art in the Park’ is coordinated by the Town’s Department of Community & Youth Services, Cultural and Performing Arts
Artist applications are available now and can be obtained by emailing capa@ oysterbay-ny.gov For additional information, visit at www.oysterbaytown.com/ capa or call (516) 797-7925.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship – Previously issued undamaged U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth, Naturalization Certificate, or Certificate of Citizenship.
This service does NOT apply to Adult Renewals unless your Passport is expired for 5+ years.
Town Clerk LaMarca has offices located at Town Hall North, 54 Audrey Avenue in Oyster Bay and Town Hall South, 977 Hicksville Road in Massapequa. Passport appointments are available Monday through Friday, from 9:30am to 3:30pm, and during this special Passport Weekend. For appointments in Oyster Bay, please call (516) 6246324. For appointments in Massapequa, please call (516) 797-7962. BY APPOINTMENT ONLY! For information on passport requirements and processing times, as well as instructions for passport renewals, visit www.travel. state.gov.
Great Spaces To Host A Graduation Party
Graduati on season has arrived, and with it comes plenty of celebrati ons honoring students who have spent years working toward a diploma or degree. Graduati on parti es commemorate students’ hard work, and there are many great places to host these special events and make the occasion even more memorable.
• Hotel with a private event space: Hotels are excellent venues for larger parties because they often provide everything needed — including catering, staff, overnight accommodations, and audio-visual equipment — in one package. Check local hotels to see if their banquet or meeting spaces might be a good fi t for a graduation celebration.
• Acti vity spaces: Many graduates prefer something less formal than a traditi onal party. Activitybased venues, such as boutique bowling alleys, arcades, or entertainment complexes, allow guests to mingle, move around, and play games while celebrating the graduate’s achievement.
• Outdoor parks or community spaces: Towns and municipaliti es often have outdoor venues that can be rented or reserved for litt le to no cost. Covered pavilions, picnic areas, and park shelters can provide budget-friendly spaces to celebrate outdoors during warm-weather graduation season.
• Community centers or halls: Venues such as fi rehouse party rooms, VFW halls, or community centers often offer affordable rental options and the convenience of hosting outside the home. Party planners can bring their own food, entertainment, and decorations, allowing greater fl exibility and
creative control over the event theme.
• Home or backyard celebrati ons: Graduation parties held at home offer a relaxed atmosphere and fl exible schedule for guests to stop by throughout the day. If space allows, homeowners can rent tents, tables, fl ooring, and lighting to transform a backyard into an elegant venue. Home parties can range from casual cookouts to elaborate catered affairs.
• Family-style restaurants: Restaurants that can comfortably accommodate large groups help ensure guests stay well fed and relaxed while honoring the graduate. Some establishments may require a prix fi xe menu for larger parties to streamline kitchen operations and service. Even so, multi-course menus can provide good value and make hosting a stress-free experience.
• Rooftop or waterfront venues: Scenic venues with waterfront views or rooftop settings can add a memorable backdrop to a graduation celebrati on. These spaces often create a festive atmosphere and provide excellent opportunities for photographs with family and friends.
Graduati on parti es are a staple of late spring and early summer, and there are plenty of ideal locations where family and friends can gather to celebrate graduates and their accomplishments.
Prom Night Prep Tips For Parents Helping Teens
Prom is a teenage rite of passage. Prom night provides one more exciting adventure in a school experience that likely began with preschool jitters and will soon culminate in graduates receiving their high school diplomas.
Prom planning often reaches a fever pitch a few weeks before the big event. A significant amount of time and money can go into making prom a night to remember. While teens may be focused on fashion and fun, parents may be wondering what they can do to help steer their sons and daughters in the right direction. Here are some pointers for families preparing for prom.
• Set a budget: Inflation and supply chain issues have contributed to rising prices on many consumer goods, so prom attire and accessories may cost more than expected. Determine how much you can reasonably contribute and consider asking your teenager to help cover some expenses. When teens contribute financially, they may be more mindful about spending. Renting a gown or tuxedo instead of purchasing one outright also can help reduce costs.
• Be a parent first, friend second: The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says the months of April through June can be especially dangerous for teens, particularly when it comes to alcoholrelated traffic accidents. Some teens may see
prom night as an opportunity to experiment with alcohol or drugs. Parents should not condone underage drinking, whether hosting teens at home or organizing an after-party at a hotel or restaurant. Providing alcohol to anyone under 21 is both irresponsible and illegal in the United States.
• Set an example by staying calm: Prom planning can be stressful, especially when schedules, reservations, transportation, and attire all need to come together at once. Even though
teens may appear mature, emotions can run high when things do not go according to plan. Parents can help by reacting calmly to challenges and modeling problem-solving skills when unexpected obstacles arise.
• Stay involved: An involved parent can help teens make safer choices. Parents should know who their children will be spending time with, where they plan to go after prom, and how they will get home safely. Open conversations about boundaries, curfews, and expectations can help reduce risky behavior and encourage responsible decision-making.
• Discuss safety ahead of time: Talk with teens about the importance of traveling with trusted friends, staying aware of their surroundings, and contacting a parent or guardian if they ever feel unsafe or uncomfortable. Encourage teens to keep their phones charged and share transportation details before leaving for the evening. Having a plan in place can provide peace of mind for both parents and teens.
Prom night can be a memorable and enjoyable milestone in a teenager’s life. With thoughtful planning, open communication, and parental involvement, families can help make the experience safer, less stressful, and more enjoyable for everyone involved.
Saladino Seeks Nominations
For Veterans Volunteer Awards
Supervisor Joseph Saladino and the Town Board invite residents to help shine a spotlight on local heroes by submitting nominations for the Town of Oyster Bay’s annual Veterans Volunteer Awards. Honorees will be recognized during the Town’s beloved ‘Salute to America’ Celebration on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 at John Burns Park.
This annual tribute celebrates the extraordinary individuals who go above and beyond in service to our veteran community - those who continue to make a lasting impact through
compassion, advocacy, and selfless dedication.
Nominations are accepted in two categories:
• Veteran Volunteer of the Year (awarded to a veteran)
• Friend of Veterans Volunteer of the Year (awarded to a nonveteran)
All nominees must be Town of Oyster Bay
residents. Submissions must include a brief narrative outlining the nominee’s ongoing contributions to veterans’ causes. The deadline for nominations is Friday, June 5, 2026.
Award recipients will be honored during a special ceremony at the ‘Salute to America’ Celebration— an unforgettable evening
featuring live musical performances and a spectacular fireworks display, held in gratitude for the brave men and women who have protected our nation’s freedoms. To submit a nomination or request an application, visit oysterbaytown.com/ vetnominations or email kfileccia@oysterbay-ny.gov, or call (516) 797-7925
8 Games To Try At Your Next Backyard Bash
Games can enhance any outdoor function. Whether at the beach or in one’s backyard, activities can keep guests entertained between the food and other refreshments. The good news is that most games designed for these types of functions are appropriate for players across a wide range of ages.
The following are eight games that can add excitement to any outdoor gathering.
1. Ladder toss: Also known as ladder golf, this game requires players to toss string-attached balls onto a ladder-shaped target. Points are awarded depending on which rung the ball lands on.
2. Kubb: Pronounced “KOOB,” this Swedish lawn game is believed to have originated during the era of the Vikings and is best described as a blend of bowling and horseshoes. Two teams compete to knock over their opponents’ wooden blocks by throwing batons.
3. Cornhole: Many people have played cornhole, which involves tossing bean bags at a cornhole board. The objective is to get the bag into the hole or onto the board to score points. The game can be played as singles or doubles, and the first team to reach 21 points wins.
Town & Environmental Partners Harvest Kelp From Local Waterways
4. Spikeball™: Also called Roundnet, this two-on-two sport is played by hitting a ball off a net with the goal of preventing the opposing team from returning it within three touches.
5. Ring toss: This game tests hand-eye coordination. Players take turns tossing rings onto target pegs. Each peg is worth a different number of points, and the first player to reach the agreed-upon score wins.
6. Connect Four in a Row: Giant versions of familiar tabletop games also are available for yard use. In this game, players try to get four chips in a row vertically, horizontally, or diagonally.
7. Kan Jam®: Similar to cornhole or horseshoes, Kan Jam® features two teams of two players who alternate throwing a frisbee and trying to deflect it. The goal is to get the frisbee into the can.
8. Rollers: Goals are placed 25 feet apart, and players roll wooden discs in an attempt to get closest to the goal. Each side of the disc has a different number that determines the point value.
Backyard events can be enhanced with a little gameplay, and there are plenty of fun options for your next gathering.
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino joined with members of the Town’s Environmental team to harvest kelp from Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, together with local environmental partners. The Town, Friends of the Bay and Cornell Cooperative, each harvested lines of kelp to use in helping improve water quality in Oyster Bay. Additionally, through a new partnership with the Grenville Baker Boys & Girls Club, local youth participate in kelp harvesting to achieve a hands-on experience in marine conservation and sustainable environmental practices.
“The Town of Oyster Bay’s kelp harvesting program has resulted in the cultivating and harvesting of thousands of pounds of sugar kelp from our north shore marinas,” explained Supervisor Saladino. “Kelp farming is a sustainable practice that enhances biodiversity, provides habitats for marine life, and improves water quality by reducing excess nitrogen and carbon in the ecosystem. The harvested kelp is repurposed as a nutrient-rich fertilizer for Town parks and gardens, promoting eco-friendly practices throughout the community.”
Each winter, kelp lines are planted at marina locations in Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Park, Tappen Beach and TOBAY Beach, as well as in Oyster Bay Harbor and Cold Spring Harbor Conservation Management Areas. for prime cultivation periods until spring months when it gets harvested. Since the inception of the program, the Town now successfully grows over 3,000 feet of kelp – the equivalent of 10 football fields. For more information regarding this program and other environmental initiatives, visit www.oysterbaytown.com or call the Department of Environmental Resources at (516) 677-5943.
Summer Youth Pickleball Lessons
Oyster Bay Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino recently announced that Youth Pickleball Lessons will return this summer. Lessons will begin June 30th and are open to youngsters ages 8 through 17. These instructional lessons will be taught by a Level 1 PPR Certified Coach and aim to introduce participants to the fundamentals of pickleball. No experience is necessary to register.
Supervisor Saladino stated, “Pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest-growing sports in the nation, and is the perfect activity for young athletes, combining fun, fitness, and sportsmanship. These lessons offer an excellent opportunity for children of all skill levels to become involved in this fast-paced and exciting sport; Register today!”
Available Lessons Include:
8- 10 Year Olds: Tuesdays & Thursdays 5:00 p.m.- 5:50
p.m. at Allen Park, 45 Motor Ave., Farmingdale 11- 13 Year Olds: Tuesdays & Thursdays 6:00 p.m.- 6:50 p.m. at Allen Park, 45 Motor Ave., Farmingdale 14- 17 Year Olds: Tuesdays & Thursdays 7:00 p.m.- 7:50 p.m. at Allen Park, 45 Motor Ave., Farmingdale Registration will take place online at www. oysterbaytown.com/sports Residents must upload proof of residency (tax or utility bill) and birth certificate for child. Children must be at least 8-years-old at the
start of the program. Fees are $100 for residents and $125 for non-residents. Refunds will be available until Thursday, July 9, 2026 at a 5% administrative fee and will be prorated for the number of days attended. Lessons are 50 minutes long and will last for six consecutive weeks. Participants are encouraged to bring their own paddle and must wear sneakers. For more information, please call (516) 797-7945 or visit www.oysterbaytown.com.
Annual Street Fair
12:30pm 1:15pm Opening Ceremonies Padre Pio Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus
1:30pm-2:15pm The “CQ Experiment” Featuring Chantal
2:30pm-3:30pm The Acchords-The Top Doo-Wop Group in NY
4pm-5:30pm L.I. Rewind Band Music of the
MAY HAPPENINGS
THURSDAY, MAY 28th, thru SUNDAY, JUNE 7th
MIDWAY HOURS: 5-10 pm
Monday - Thursday, 5-11 pm Friday, noon-11 pm Saturday, noon-10 pm Sunday. Aqua Live Spectacular showtimes are 7 pm and 9 pm daily, with an additional 3 pm performance on Saturday and Sunday.
SOUTH SHORE MALL CARNIVAL
South Shore Mall, 1701 Sunrise Hwy. in Bay Shore. Thrills galore are in store at this family-friendly annual event, from exciting midway rides and games for all ages to the Aqua Live Spectacular water stunt show starring enchanting aerialist mermaids, "The Hurricane" waverunner jet ski and more -- plus plenty of palate-pleasing carnival eats. Please visit the website, for more information https:// dreamlandamusements.com/
FRIDAY, MAY 29th, thru SATURDAY, MAY 30th
Friday, 10:00AM-4:30PM Saturday, 10:00AM-3:00PM SPRING BOOK SALE
Friends of the Babylon Public Library Spring Book Sale, 24 South Carll Avenue in Babylon. Come shop for books, DVDs, CDs, and more! Thursday evening hours are reserved for Friends members only, but you can become a member at the door! Proceeds from the book sale help pay for the library’s Museum Pass Program. For more information, please call 631-6691624
MAKE A SUBMISSION! Events must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the event date and will run free of charge on a space available basis. For more information, please call 631.226.2636 x275 or send events to editorial@longislandmediagroup.com
FRIDAY, MAY 29th, thru SUNDAY, MAY 31st
Friday & Saturday 4:00PM -10:00PM Sunday, 2:00PM to 8PM
SEAFORD SPRING JAM at the Seaford Train Station. The Seaford Spring Jam returns to Seaford Station along Sunrise Highway for Three Nights. It's a Carnival, a Music Festival and a Food Truck Rally... all jammed into one! For more information, please call 516-644-5615
SATURDAY, MAY 30th
8:00AM-1:00PM
MULTI-FAMILY INDOOR YARD SALE
Food, Thrift Shop, Antiques and so much more! Grace United Methodist Church, 515 S. Wellwood Ave. in Lindenhurst. For more information, please call 631-226-8690
10:00AM-4:00PM
WESTBURY STREET FAIR
149 Post Avenue in Westbury. Family shopoping fun! A great way to spend the day. Vendors, local artists, Art Exhibit, food trucks, live music. Free admission and parking. For more information, please visit https://nassaucountyfairs.com/
SUNDAY, MAY 31st
1O:00AM-4:00M STREET FAIR
Rain Date: Sunday, June 7th. Deer Park Avenue North in Babylon, Hale Rd to Stone Ave. Live Music, Performances, Food Court, Inflatables, Vendors, Raffles Arts and Crafts.
11:00AM-6:00PM
ANNUAL ISLIP STREET FAIR ON MAIN STREET
517 Main Street in Islip. Hosted by the Islip Chamber of Commerce, it is a Quarter-Mile Long fair route stretching from South Bay Ave to Smith Ave. The Street Fair fosters a genuine sense of community pride that is heightened by all the fun features the Chamber has added, which include: a Giant Craft & Vendor Bazaar, Magnificent Kids Funzone, The Tasty Tailgate Food Truck Rally, The New York Islanders Slapshot Booth, Face Painting, Raffles And So Much More! Admission to the fair is free. The event is rain or shine (no rain date) For more information, please call 516-644-5615
Doors open: 1:00 PM Games start: 2:00 PM SUPERMARKET BINGO & CHINESE AUCTION
Our Lady of Lourdes School Auditorium, 855 Carmans Rd. in Massapequa Park. Admission: $25 per adult (18+ only), cash or check (payable to OLI Columbiettes) Limited seating— buy tickets early. Sponsored by Knights of Columbus & Columbiettes (Our Lady of the Island Council) For more information, please call Joan Donovan: 516-659-6519 | jdonovan17@aol.com, Diane Esposito: 516445-9128, diane. esposito.mpk@gmail.com
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Hospital Association Offers $2,000 Scholarship
The Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council (NSHC) announces a $2,000 scholarship for college juniors/seniors or post graduate students who are studying Journalism, Marketing/ Communications, or Healthcare Administration. (The scholarship is not for clinical-based study.)
The Ann Marie Brown Memorial Scholarship honors the late Ann Marie Brown, who served as vice president for government and public relations for the Hospital Council from 1983 to 1993. The scholarship is administered by the Hospital Council’s Communications Committee.
Filing deadline is June 30, 2026 at 5:00 PM. For more information and an application go to the NSHC scholarship page or call 631-3348321.
About the Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council (NSHC)
The Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council represents the not-for-profit and public hospitals on Long Island. It works in conjunction with the Suburban Hospital Alliance of New York State to advance legislative and regulatory priorities. NSHC serves as the local and collective voice of hospitals on Long Island.
Did You Know?
Only certain veterans can get the complete comprehensive caregiver benefit package through the VA. DAV (Disabled American Veterans) is working to change these laws and correct this inequity. Many Americans are asking their legislators where they stand on the issue.
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Popular Prom Songs Through The Years
Popular songs provide the soundtrack to young adults’ lives. Such songs offer comfort when hearts are broken, provide common ground with peers, and can even lift a person up during a study session or before a big game.
Music also plays a large role on prom night. Prom playlists are often a mix of high-energy anthems and slower ballads. These songs can serve as poignant reminders of the ups and downs of high school. Memories sparked by music can last long after photos or other mementos are forgotten.
2010s: Electronic Dance Influence
Over the last 30 years, certain songs have become associated with the eras in which they first debuted. Naturally, these songs also were popular at proms during those years. Here is a look back at some of the most memorable prom songs from the 1990s through today.
1990s: Iconic Power Ballads and R&B Slow Jams
Proms during the 1990s were dominated by larger-than-life soundtracks and R&B groups, which balanced the grunge and hard-rock sounds of the era. This was the peak of the slow-dance era, with many songs also serving as movie soundtrack favorites.
• “I Swear,” All-4-One
• “(Everything I Do) I Do It for You,” Bryan Adams
• “Finally,” CeCe Peniston
• “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” Aerosmith
• “My Heart Will Go On,” Celine Dion
• “I’ll Be,” Edwin McCain
• “Tha Crossroads,” Bone Thugs-NHarmony
2000s: Party Anthems
The 2000s ushered in an energy shift toward hip-hop and club hits that kept dance floors packed. Proms became more upbeat and energetic with playlists like these.
• “Yeah!,” Usher featuring Lil Jon & Ludacris
• “Mr. Brightside,” The Killers
• “Hips Don’t Lie,” Shakira
• “Get Low,” Lil Jon & The East Side Boyz
• “If I Ain’t Got You,” Alicia Keys
• “Chasing Cars,” Snow Patrol
• “Hero,” Enrique Iglesias
The party continued into the next decade with the rise of electronic dance music and songs that sparked viral moments on early social media platforms. The following songs were likely heard at many proms throughout the 2010s.
• “Uptown Funk,” Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars
• “Party Rock Anthem,” LMFAO
• “All of Me,” John Legend
• “Thinking Out Loud,” Ed Sheeran
• “Timber,” Pitbull featuring Kesha
• “Shut Up and Dance,” Walk the Moon
• “Shake It Off,” Taylor Swift
• “Despacito,” Luis Fonsi featuring Daddy Yankee
2020s: Nostalgia and Viral Hits
The modern era’s prom songs reflect a mix of 2000s nostalgia and tracks that have gained popularity through social media.
• “Stay,” The Kid Laroi & Justin Bieber
• “Levitating,” Dua Lipa
• “About Damn Time,” Lizzo
• “As It Was,” Harry Styles
• “good 4 u,” Olivia Rodrigo
• “Espresso,” Sabrina Carpenter
• “Pink Pony Club,” Chappell Roan
Timeless Favorites
While current hits tend to dominate prom playlists, certain songs remain staples year after year.
• “Don’t Stop Believin’,” Journey
• “Cupid Shuffle,” Cupid
• “Cha Cha Slide,” DJ Casper
• “Dancing Queen,” ABBA
• “Starships,” Nicki Minaj
• “Sweet Caroline,” Neil Diamond
Prom music helps create the soundtrack to students’ lives and can help people remember the feeling of that special evening long after prom has come and gone.
Score A Good Grade On A Graduation Dinner
Students spend a good portion of their lives studying. By the time graduation arrives, thousands of hours spent on homework and writing term papers have passed. According to the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education, the number of U.S. high school graduates was expected to reach nearly 3.9 million students in 2025. The Education Data Initiative says 2.168 million bachelor’s degrees were conferred in spring 2025 in the United States. Individuals on the precipice of the next chapter in their lives are certainly worthy of celebration. A graduation dinner might just be an A-plus idea.
A graduation dinner is all about balancing the magnitude of the occasion with a relaxed environment for the graduate. Here is a syllabus for a seamless graduation meal.
• Secure the date. Graduation season is one of the busiest times of year for restaurants. Between May and June, millions of graduates will don caps and gowns and then be eager to celebrate. For those who are not hosting at home, it is essential to move quickly to secure a reservation. Book a reservation as soon as you know the graduation date.
• Consider another day. Graduation ceremonies tend to run late. Rather than feeling beholden to the actual graduation date and worrying about making it to the venue on time, consider hosting the graduation dinner the evening before or after to sidestep the post-commencement rush.
• Ask about packages. Speak with the
catering manager at the venue to find out if there is a specific party or graduation package. Many places offer limited prix fixe menus for large groups so the kitchen can operate efficiently. Be sure the graduate’s favorite foods are included on the menu; otherwise, broaden the venue search.
• Consider an at-home affair. Although it may involve extra work, hosting at home enables you to customize the menu to reflect the guest of honor’s favorite foods. Personalizing the meal with dishes inspired by school colors, a signature cocktail or mocktail, and themed desserts can make the event even more memorable. Not all of the food has to be homemade. Hiring a caterer and setting up buffet-style chafing dishes can make hosting less labor-intensive.
• Truly take the cake. Don’t forget to feature a centerpiece dessert. Beyond the classic “Congrats, Grad!” sentiments, consider a cake topper customized to the graduate’s area of study. A stethoscope for someone entering health care or a stock market ticker for a finance major can make the cake especially unique.
• Keep the program short and sweet. Graduates have already endured plenty of lectures and speeches, so any remarks should be brief. Highlight a specific honor or achievement, and skip lengthy slideshows or photo montages. A simple framed “then and now” photo featuring the graduate on the first day of kindergarten or preschool can serve as a meaningful conversation starter.
