<p>I’ve got a timing suggestion. One way that you might avoid competing with other parties (assuming this is a party where you will be inviting lots of kids/parents from the graduating class) is to have the party on the night before graduation. We did this with my younger D and it worked out really well. No other parties scheduled that night–almost everyone in her class showed up (it was outside, so that was fine). The kids didn’t party too long or too late because of graduation practice the next morning (Friday). It was a fun way to kick off the graduation festivities.</p>
<p>Great ideas, everyone, keep 'em coming…I am taking notes!</p>
<p>we are doing a party in August, birthday and college send off…am thinking of doing dd college colors…mexican food catered (cheap, good and easy!!)…</p>
<p>welcome any other ideas!!</p>
<p>^^^make-your-own-burrito bar?</p>
<p>I’m liking the going away party more and more. Perhaps, we’ll have a small grad party with close friends and family since most will be coming from out of town and then we’ll throw a big bbq farewell at the end of the summer. Wait, I’m suddenly feeling overwhelmed! :p</p>
<p>our daughter decided last year that she wanted the going away party, since her 18th birthday is also in August. And, I have to say, it sure is a huge relief to NOT have to worry about planning a party right now. I feel like I will be able to enjoy the Graduation events more. I put a “save the date” for the August party in her Graduation announcements so family would know we are not doing anything now. We will go out to dinner together with Grandparents the night before Graduation. Now, I have the summer to plan and leisurely work on her going away party! Phew!</p>
<p>I am having S’s party the night of graduation, but I am having the whole thing catered, We are having mostly family and adult friends, S wanted a few friends. We are going kind of fancy on the food, It’s a barbecue, mahi mahi, flank steak, sliders for the kids, chicken, grilled vegetables, salads, mini cupcakes and pastries.</p>
<p>mafool, I was on the internet looking for root beer kegs and found places in chicago and new england but nothing in the detroit area. I don’t know if I can be helped there.</p>
<p>Have to decide if I want it catered or make my own. I have some ideas about making my own in a way that should be pretty easy and good along with some items catered, like fried chicken.</p>
<p>I may look into catered mexican food , as suggested. Wouldn’t mind saving a few bucks since the tent and table rental was pretty costly due to having to go on concrete.</p>
<p>The farewell party-bbq-is a great idea. Too late for that for me</p>
<p>Detroitgirl, I live in a smallish town on the other side of Michigan. I’m betting that the rootbeer kegs they sell here aren’t showing up on the 'net. Do you have a local micro brewery?</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>