May and June are graduation season in North Texas, and every weekend fills up fast. Whether you’re celebrating a high school senior in Prosper or a college grad in Denton, this checklist covers the graduation party rentals and planning steps that make the day easy.
1. Pick the Date and Format
Many families host an open house — guests drop in over three or four hours instead of arriving all at once. That means you need seating for about half your guest list at any one time. A sit-down party needs seating for everyone.
Book early. Graduation weekends are among the busiest of the year for tents, tables and chairs.
2. Plan Shade and Space
Texas sun in late May is intense. A tent keeps guests comfortable and protects food from the heat. Use our tent size guide to choose the right size; for 60–80 guests at a time, a 20×40 is a popular choice.
Add misting fans and plenty of water. Consider an evening start time to avoid peak heat.
3. Tables, Chairs and Linens
- Round or rectangular tables for eating
- Cocktail tables for mingling
- Chairs for about half to two-thirds of guests at an open house
- Tablecloths in school colors
4. Food and Drinks
- Taco bars, barbecue, sliders and pasta stations are easy crowd-pleasers.
- Chafing dishes and serveware keep food warm.
- Beverage dispensers and coolers keep drinks cold.
- For large parties, book catering and event helpers.
5. Celebrate the Graduate
- A photo display of the grad from kindergarten to cap and gown
- A TV or projector for a slideshow
- A photo booth with school-color props
- A card box and a guest book with advice for the future
- A small stage or microphone for a toast
6. Keep Guests Entertained
Yard games like cornhole and giant tower are perfect for an open-house format. A DJ or a Bluetooth party speaker keeps the energy up.
Graduation Party Timeline
- 3 months out: set the date, budget and guest list; reserve tent, tables and chairs.
- 6 weeks out: send invitations with the grad’s photo; book caterer and photo booth.
- 2 weeks out: confirm rentals and the delivery window; plan the photo display.
- Day before: mow, set up tables and decor, chill drinks.
Sample Rental List for 100 Guests (Open House)
- 20×40 tent
- Eight 60-inch rounds and 60 chairs
- Four cocktail tables
- Three 8-ft buffet tables with linens
- Two drum fans or misting fans
- Cornhole and giant tower games
We deliver graduation party rentals across McKinney, Frisco, Prosper, Celina, Allen, Plano, Anna, Melissa, Princeton, Wylie and nearby cities. Add what you need to your cart and pick your date on our booking calendar.
Plan Your Event With Dallas Party Rentals
Add rentals and event services to your cart, pick your dates on our booking calendar and check out online — or call 469-909-0360.