With school quickly approaching its end, many seniors only have one thing on their mind — graduation. This ceremonial end to high school means that the season of graduation parties is almost here. 

Grad parties are usually held anywhere from the night before graduation to weeks after the event. A grad party typically will have refreshments, food and decorations – usually on theme with the graduate’s future school.

While events like these may not be necessary for some seniors, others believe it is a way to celebrate their accomplishments with friends and family. One such senior is Shelby Lee.

“I honestly think the point of a grad party is for everyone in your life to celebrate you and what you have achieved,” Lee said. “I’m looking forward to seeing who all comes and having everyone I care about in one place.”

Although Lee contemplated not having a grad party for a while, she ultimately decided that it was in her best interest to host one. 

According to Lee, she is excited to see the variety of people who attend and have the opportunity to talk to everyone at each grad party she is invited to.

Another senior who finds special value in hosting a grad party is Sam Weber, who also believes that a grad party is meant to bring family and friends together.

“I’m hosting one because I want to have a big gathering with friends and family,” Weber said. “I’m really looking forward to having my entire family be present, even the ones that don’t live around here.”

Many seniors, including Weber, are also hoping to receive money from their grad parties.

“Although money isn’t the most important part, it would be nice to get some to save up for college and other investments in the future,” Weber said.

Agreeing with Weber, senior Weston Marini is looking forward to three things at his grad party — “seeing everyone, food and money.”

Marini believes that every senior should host a grad party, even if it’s just a small one.

“I think everyone should have the opportunity to bring their family together one last time to celebrate their high school career,” Marini said. “It’s also a way to save money for the future, which is also super important.”

Many seniors are already sending out invites and planning parties — grad season is right around the corner.

“The overall point of a grad party is to celebrate someone achieving a big goal in life and helping that person start that next chapter,” Weber said. “Grad parties are a great way to kickstart someone’s future.”