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Graduation caps being thrown in the air by students.

Backyard Graduation Party Food & Drink Ideas

Culinary Culture

Recipes

With all the graduation celebrations taking place at this time of year, we’ve put together some great ideas for food bars and beverage bars that would be perfect for those hosting a graduation party. See below for some inspiration and get started planning.

Waffle Bar

Have a waffle maker? If not, you might want to get one if this waffle bar idea excites you and you’re hosting a graduation party brunch (see the mimosa bar idea below for a perfect beverage bar to complement this waffle bar)!

Set up the table with every topping you can possibly think of that people love putting on waffles. There are so many possibilities, from different flavored syrups and whipped creams, to fresh fruits and ice cream. You can make the waffles in advance and keep them warm until the party begins, or make them in front of everyone (you may want to enlist a friend or family member to help out if you go with this option!).

Mimosa Bar

A colorful mimosa bar is a fantastic beverage bar for a brunch celebration and adds extra fun to the festivities! Put out some fresh fruit juices, cut up fresh fruit, and champagne for your guests to make their own mimosa creations. With this set up, you’ll even be able to sit back and enjoy a mimosa (or two) yourself!

Refreshing Beverage Bar

A beverage bar with several drink options for guests to choose from is always a welcome addition to a backyard party, regardless of what time of day the party is being held. Select some beverages to serve based on any preferences you may be aware of and, of course, be sure to have some of the graduate’s favorites. One possible assortment of refreshing beverages that includes a little something for everyone would be iced tea, lemonade, sangria, and some infused waters.

Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Bar

Fresh fruits and vegetables are refreshing and provide healthy and tasty food options. Display a variety of fresh fruits cut into bite-size pieces in bowls, with accompanying toppings like whipped cream and yogurt. Be sure to leave out enough spoons for each fruit and topping choice. Do the same with different vegetables and have a variety of dips for guests to try.

Diploma-Inspired Dessert Bar

For a dessert bar, incorporate a couple of graduation-themed sweets. Try cute candy cup graduation caps, surprise-filled piñata graduation cap cookies, or fudgy gold stars that will inspire graduates to dream and get excited about all the future possibilities.

No matter what type of food and beverage bars you decide to have, they’re sure to be a hit. And they’ll allow you to be more at ease and enjoy the celebration since you won’t have to run around like crazy the entire time.

Are you more interested in catering a graduation party in Chicago? Feel free to contact us today to discuss your needs.