How to Throw a University-Themed Graduation Party🎓

How to Throw a University-Themed Graduation Party🎓

Graduation is a huge milestone—why not celebrate it with a party that’s as unique as the graduate’s school pride? A university-themed graduation party is the perfect way to honor their hard work and their connection to campus life.

Here’s your step-by-step guide, with ideas tailored to popular universities and their iconic landmarks.

1. Use School Colors and Mascots Everywhere

Nothing sets the tone like official school colors in your decorations. Cover the space with balloons, banners, and tableware in the graduate’s school palette.

  • UNC Chapel Hill – Carolina blue and white, featuring the Tar Heel mascot.

  • Louisiana State University – Purple and gold, with Mike the Tiger.

  • Auburn University – Orange and navy blue, with Aubie the Tiger.

  • University of Texas - Burnt orange and white, with Texas Longhorns.
UNC Chapel Hill graduation party table with Carolina blue and white decorations, featuring a 3D printed LED Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower centerpiece.

2. Feature the School’s Most Iconic Landmark

Make the party instantly recognizable by showcasing the university’s signature campus building:

  • UNC – Morehead-Patterson Bell Tower

  • LSU – Memorial Tower

  • Auburn – Samford Hall

  • University of Virginia – The Rotunda

  • Georgetown – Healy Hall

  • Texas - UT Tower

3D printed Auburn University Samford Hall ornament with orange and navy ribbon, shown on white background

Our 3D printed LED replicas of these buildings make perfect party centerpieces, graduation cake toppers, or display table accents. After the party, they become a lasting keepsake.

3. Create a School Spirit Photo Booth

Set up a themed photo spot with:

  • A backdrop featuring the UNC Bell Tower or LSU Memorial Tower

  • Foam fingers and pennants in school colors

  • Graduation caps, mascot cutouts, and signs like “Go Tar Heels!” or “Geaux Tigers!”

LSU-themed school spirit photo booth with purple and gold decorations, tiger mascot props, and graduation party accessories.

4. Serve Food with a Local Flavor

Match the menu to the school’s hometown:

  • UNC – Carolina pulled pork sliders and sweet tea

  • LSU – Cajun shrimp, jambalaya, and beignets

  • Auburn – Fried chicken, sweet tea, and pecan pie

  • UVA – Ham biscuits and Virginia wine

  • Georgetown – Cupcakes from a DC bakery and local coffee

Auburn University graduation party table with fried chicken, sweet tea, pecan pie, and a 3D printed LED Auburn Samford Hall centerpiece.

5. Add Personal Touches

Showcase the graduate’s time on campus with:

  • A framed photo next to a mini 3D printed ornament of their school’s landmark

  • A scrapbook station where guests can add photos and memories

  • A memory table with their cap, gown, and diplomaUniversity of Texas graduation party table with framed photo and 3D printed UT Tower ornament with orange ribbon.

Our ornament-sized 3D prints make unique party favors that guests will treasure.

6. Give a Gift That Keeps the Memories Alive

End the night by presenting the graduate with a 3D printed LED lamp of their school’s landmark—something they can keep on their desk, in their dorm, or in their first apartment.

Imagine a UNC grad lighting up their new home with the Bell Tower, or an LSU alum showcasing the Memorial Tower in their office. It’s a gift that’s both personal and practical.

University of Texas graduation gift table decorated with festive party items, featuring a 3D printed LED UT Tower centerpiece in burnt orange.

Celebrate in True School Spirit

With the right mix of colors, landmarks, and local touches, your university-themed graduation party will be unforgettable. From Tar Heel blue to Tiger gold, every detail will honor the graduate’s school pride.

Ready to find the perfect centerpiece or graduation gift?
👉 Shop our 3D Printed University Figurines & Ornaments

Back to blog