Make sure to use citronella candles and have mosquito spray on hand.
Graduation is an important event, as is making the celebration one to remember. It can be fun and easy to throw a great graduation bash and let your graduate know just how proud you are. The luau theme is a popular one, and it's easy to turn your backyard, or even living room, into party central. Not only is the luau party fun, but it can be an opportunity to add some silly elements that will make your guests smile. All parties start with the invitations, so send something fun and festive, and let your guests know all the details at least two weeks before the party.
Lighting
Tiki torches are a great method of outside lighting, and some comes with citronella candles to help ward off the insects. Colorful lanterns are another good option, and there are many styles to choose from. Some use candles, but others have light bulbs and so can be used for indoor lighting. Unlit tiki torches can also be hung on the walls indoors to add to the feel.
Decorations
Consider having a life-size cutout of the graduate to greet people at the door. A buffet table will let guests choose their own food, freeing you up to enjoy the party, and they're a great opportunity to decorate. Grass skirts around the tables will add a fun, kitschy touch. Tiki statues and a picture of the graduate make a great centerpiece, especially when surrounded by fun flowers, lovely leis or bright Hawaiian shirts. As guests arrive, you can pass out grass skirts, Hawaiian shirts, or just leis to get people in the spirit of things.
Food and Drink
A ham is traditional luau food, especially with pineapples, and it can go a long way. Fruit kabobs can make tasty finger food, and they're easy to make; you just chop up bits of fruit and skewer them. Lemonade and fruit punches go well with this theme, and for those who appreciate a good bad pun, maybe even a little Hawaiian Punch. A "Congratulations on Your Graduation" cake decorated with tiki faces and tropical flowers makes a great dessert.
Activities
Limbo is a classic party activity and one that people enjoy. A conga line can also be entertaining, if there's room enough to conga. A hula hoop contest is a silly bit of fun and it can limber up your party guests in case you decide to hire a hula instructor for an hour to give your guests a lesson in the real thing.
Tags: your guests, citronella candles, Hawaiian shirts