Pittsburgh Graduation Party Planning: The Ultimate Guide

Graduation season is upon us, and planning a graduation party can be stressful and overwhelming. But don't worry, we've got you covered with our ultimate guide to planning a Pittsburgh graduation party. From venue options to decor, food, and drinks, we've got all the recommendations you need to throw an unforgettable celebration for your graduate. Choose from a variety of venues in Pittsburgh, incorporate school spirit with balloon decor and marquee lights, offer drinks from a mobile bar, and satisfy your guests' taste buds with charcuterie, custom cookies, and catering options. With this guide, planning a Pittsburgh graduation party will be a breeze!

Party Planning Guide:

Venue

Finding the perfect venue can be stressful, but fear not! Pittsburgh has so many lovely venues to choose from with a wide range of styles, capacities, and functionalities to satisfy your specific needs. For a large, formal party, we recommend The Art Room in the heart of the Strip District, but check out our full list of venue recommendations here.

Balloons

What's a graduation party without some school spirit? Balloons are the perfect way to incorporate school colors in your party decor whether they match the school you’re graduating from or the one you’re headed to next. At Party on Butler, we create balloon decor from arches to garlands to helium bundles custom to your needs. While we offer pick-up services, our delivery and installation service is a great option for graduation parties. Let us handle the stress of decor while you focus on your special grad.

Marquee Lights

A more recent decor trend, marquee lights are a fun addition to balloon decor that will make your event pop. Party on Butler offers these number marquee light rentals that are perfect for displaying the year of the graduation.

Mobile Bar

Now onto drinks! If your venue has available outdoor space, a mobile bar is a super fun option for your guests. Depending on the age of your graduate, most are able to serve both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages through their tap system. They typically come equipped with a bartender as well. Check out our blog about mobile bars in Pittsburgh, but one recommendation we have is the Cork and Bubble Machine.

Charcuterie

Of course, everyone loves charcuterie! Getting a grazing board for your party is a great way for your guests to be able to snack as they please. We recommend Blanket and Board's grazing tables, but check out our Pittsburgh charcuterie blog here.

Custom Cookies

Custom sugar cookies are a perfect way to add a personal touch to your party. You can make them custom to the school you graduated from, the college you’re going to, or simply to yourself. We recommend Ruby Lou Company for your custom cookie needs, but check out our full list of Pittsburgh cookie artists here.

Catering

If you're looking for some light fare or dessert catering, Lola's Eatery is your place. This Lawrenceville breakfast and brunch spot offers a range of catering from make-your-own bagel boards to dessert and pastry boxes. Lola’s will wow your guests!

Incorporating these recommendations into your graduation party planning will not only take some weight off your shoulders but will also create a memorable and enjoyable experience for your guests. Whether you're celebrating a high school or college graduation, your graduate deserves to be recognized for their hard work and accomplishments, and a well-planned party is a perfect way to do so.

We hope that this guide has been helpful in planning your Pittsburgh graduation party, and we wish you and your graduate all the best in their future endeavors. Congratulations to the Class of 2025!

We hope you enjoyed this list and found the perfect event space for your upcoming event! Find out how you can transform any venue into the perfect event getaway with Hudson Event Design’s stunning balloon installations today!

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