16 Fun Graduation Party Entertainment Ideas for 2024
Brittany Anderson
Editor
You’ve got a summer full of graduation parties coming up and are wondering how do you make sure yours is memorable for your graduate? This is where graduation party entertainment is key! From classics like a DJ or band to something unique like a fire dancer or henna artist, these graduation party entertainment ideas will ensure your celebration is one guests will never forget. And, you can book them all right here on The Bash.
Pro Tip: Party hosts using The Bash typically request their graduation party entertainment around 65 days prior to their event date. Use this checklist to start planning now.
Here are 16 graduation party entertainment ideas for your 2024 celebration:
1. DJ
Let a DJ handle the tunes, make announcements, and ensure the party is running smoothly.
Average Cost: $575 per event.
2. Caricaturist
When you hire a caricature artist, not only are you providing unique graduation party entertainment, but also including a party favor for guests to take home.
Average Cost: $350 per event.
3. Bartender
While this may not seem like entertainment for a graduation party, a bartender crafting custom themed cocktails (and mocktails!) will be a hit for guests, and the party host who doesn’t have to worry about serving drinks.
Average Cost: $375 (plus additional costs for supplies) per event.
4. Cover Band
Elevate your graduation party with a cover band. A cover band will play hits from a variety of decades and genres, and have guests dancing all night long.
Average Cost: $1,600 per event.
5. Photo Booth Rental
A tried and true favorite, you can’t go wrong with a photo booth for a graduation party.
Average Cost: $400 per event.
6. Food Truck
Is the graduate a foodie? Do they love tacos or mini donuts or a specific cuisine? If so, a food truck is the way to go.
Average Cost: varies per event.
7. Comedy Hypnotist
Amaze party guests when you book a hypnotist as your graduation party entertainment. Many offer a stage show or can mesmerize guests while strolling through the crowd.
Average Cost: $1,000 per event.
8. Singer Guitarist
Sometimes simple is best. Hiring a singer guitarist will bring a calm ambiance to a graduation party, while still providing entertainment.
Average Cost: $475 per event.
9. Country Band
If your grad is a country music fan, why not surprise them with a performance from a live country band.
Average Cost: $1,660 per event.
10. Party Robot
Quite possibly the most unique graduation party entertainment idea, a party robot is an experience no one soon will forget.
Average Cost: $500 per event.
11. Karaoke DJ
A karaoke DJ doubles as the music aspect of your party as well as the entertainment. Get ready to sing the night away.
Average Cost: $500 per event.
12. Mariachi Band
Hire a local Mariachi band (or duo or trio) to perform and bring an authentic and fun atmosphere to your grad party.
Average Cost: $825 per event.
13. Acoustic Guitarist
If you’re looking for more of a laid back vibe at your grad party, then an acoustic guitarist is the way to go.
Average Cost: $535 per event.
14. Fire Dancer
Having a luau or tropical themed graduation party? Kick it up a notch with a fire dancer.
Average Cost: $275 per event.
15. Psychic
Create a one-of-a-kind experience for guests, with psychic or tarot card readings. What better way to start a new chapter than with a glimpse into your future.
Average Cost: $300 per event.
16. Henna Artist
A henna artist is a graduation party entertainment idea that guests of all ages will love. These temporary and intricate designs can last up to 3 weeks.
Average Cost: $350 per event.
Graduation Party Entertainment Booking Tips
- Here on The Bash, you can find and book graduation party entertainment. While browsing, be sure to review vendor profiles and check out their photos and videos.
- When preparing a request for vendors, keep in mind that the more details you can provide, the more accurate the price quote you'll receive. If you receive a price quote that seems like it needs clarification, don't hesitate to reach out to the vendor directly to find out more.
- Make sure you have discussed what supplies the vendor will need for their performance. You'll want to know what they can provide, and what you'll need to have on hand at your event.
- Communicate your expectations and special requests to any prospective musicians, and make sure to ask about their repertoire — especially if you have a particular song that you would like them to perform.
- If you're planning an outdoor event, be sure to discuss where the vendor will be situated for the best acoustics and conditions for them to perform.
- Discuss what kind of atmosphere and mood you are hoping to set for your event. The more they know, the better they'll meet your expectations.
Find more graduation party ideas here on The Bash.
