How to Plan a College Graduation Party

Zone 28 • April 29, 2019
Plan Your College Graduation Party at Zone 28 | Pittsburgh

Congratulations! You’ve successfully made it through college and that in itself is an impressive feat. That being said, all your hard work calls for a celebration. While it can seem overwhelming to plan a great party, if you focus on these three main steps, there's no doubt that your celebration will be a success.

Step 1. Send Invitations

You are going to want to invite the people who have shaped your college experience. Obviously, this includes friends and family, but also consider including other influential people like your favorite professors and/or coworkers.

Once you have your guest list, try to send out your invitations at least 3 weeks in advance. Graduation season tends to be a pretty busy time for most people, so you want to get the word out early.

Step 2. Pick a Theme

While not essential to the celebration, having a theme adds an element of fun and can help give you a framework for planning other parts of your party. Traditionally, people choose their college colors as their central theme, but feel free to be as creative with this as you want.

Also, once you choose a theme, you will have a better idea of what decorations, food, etc you are going to want.

Step 3. Create a Menu

Now for everyone’s favorite: the food. The biggest concern when creating a menu is keeping things convenient for you and your guests. Here are 3 popular styles in which you can offer food at your party:

  • A Full Menu: The easiest way to do this would be with a buffet style including one or more entree options, sides, drinks and dessert.
  • Appetizers Only: This would mean sticking with lighter fare. Plan to host your party between major meal times if this is the option you choose.
  • Desserts Only: If you are trying to save money, offering only desserts is a great option. A classic graduation cake will do but you can be creative here as well (i.e. DIY Ice Cream Bar).

Let Zone 28 Plan Your College Graduation Party


Our Suite 28 makes a perfect venue for celebrating your big day. We offer private bowling lanes, banquet space, a private bar, and state-of-the-art audio and video systems, letting you create a party you and your guests will be sure to remember. Learn more about hosting a college graduation party at Zone 28.




By info April 4, 2025
Spring into action with Zone 28’s brand-new Easter Egg Hunt — a hoppin’ good time for the whole family! 🎉 For just $10 per person , get ready for a morning packed with excitement, sweet surprises, and unforgettable memories. 🗓 Date: Friday, April 19th ⏰ Time: Starting at 9 AM 📍 Location: Zone 28 Bring your Easter spirit and join the Easter Bunny and Zone 28’s own mascot, the one and only Enoz , as we kick off a fun-filled egg hunt adventure throughout the facility! 🐰🎈 🎟 Here’s what your $10 ticket includes: 🛍 A festive bag to collect your eggs 🎮 A $20 Game Card for our action-packed arcade 🦆 A limited-edition Zone 28-themed rubber ducky 🥚 What’s in the Eggs? Our eggs are stuffed with tons of candy and fun treats — but that’s not all… Keep your eyes peeled for 10 rare golden eggs hidden throughout the hunt! These special eggs unlock awesome prizes that’ll have you jumping for joy! Whether you're 5 or 55, this event is the perfect way to celebrate Easter with some extra Zone 28 flair. 🐣💥 Don’t miss out — round up your crew and come early to get a head start on the hunt. See you bright and early on April 19th for a morning of egg-cellent fun!
By info March 20, 2025
At Zone 28 , we’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in the sweetest way possible – with a brand-new, magically delicious milkshake! Introducing The Leprechaun Milkshake , a limited-time treat that’s as festive as it is flavorful.
By info March 6, 2025
Lent is here, and at Zone 28, we’re making sure you can still enjoy delicious meals! Our brand-new Lent Menu is packed with fresh flavors, seafood favorites, and meat-free options, available now through Easter . Whether you're dining in with family or grabbing a bite between games, there’s something for everyone.
By info February 28, 2025
If you’re looking for the ultimate drink to kick off March with a bang, Zone 28 has just what you need! Say hello to our newest alcoholic fishbowl of the Month – The Irish Margarita Bowl! Delivering the perfect balance of smooth whiskey warmth and zesty margarita tang.
Zone 28's Newest arcade game, HALO FIRETEAM RAVEN!
February 26, 2025
Zone 28's Newest and most eye catching arcade game, Halo Fireteam Raven! Embark on a epic journey through the Halo verse as FIRETEAM RAVEN, defeating Covenant and saving the Galaxy!
By info May 22, 2021
Learn more about Rail Hose Restaurant Chef Scott's culinary background.
By info March 30, 2020
While it might not be as satisfying as seeing them in person, technology provides the opportunity to still spend time with friends. Here are our tips for making the most of your next virtual hangout.
By info March 20, 2020
Believe us, we wish you were here with us at Zone 28, too, but in the meantime, we can still enjoy bowling through some of our favorite movies!
By Zone28 March 18, 2020
Social distancing doesn’t mean also distancing yourself from having a good time. It simply means you need to be more creative with socializing and having fun!
By info March 12, 2020
The best tips for creating a basketball bracket if you have little to no knowledge of the sport but still want to participate in the tournament.
Show More