Graduation is a significant achievement for your child, marking years of hard work and dedication. This milestone deserves a fantastic celebration, and what better way to honor it than by hosting a memorable party? After finalizing your guest list, it’s time to explore various graduation party food ideas that will elevate the celebration and ensure everyone enjoys themselves.

Key Graduation Party Ideas

Organizing your child’s graduation party can be a joyful experience, provided you plan ahead. Early preparation is crucial for creating an event that everyone gets to enjoy – including you! Below, we’ve put together some tips for décor and graduation food party ideas to serve.

Party Décor

First, consider fun graduation party decorations. When planning decorations for a graduation party, create a festive and celebratory atmosphere that reflects your child’s achievements. Plus, add a personal touch and incorporate colors from their school. Additionally, here are a few other decorating ideas:

• Banners and Streamers: Speaking of using school colors, hanging banners is a great way to do that.
• Balloon Arrangements: Likewise, balloon bouquets in assorted sizes and school colors make fun centerpieces. Plus, they’re often great for an impromptu game of keep-the-balloon-from-touching-the-ground. Trust us, even adults get giggling as they get in on the fun.
• Table Centerpieces: Other centerpiece ideas include items like diplomas, caps, or photos of the graduate.
• Photo Display: Similarly, create a photo wall showcasing the graduate’s journey through school with a timeline of cherished moments.
• Graduation Caps: Decorate tables or candies with miniature graduation caps to reinforce the theme and provide fun visuals. Or, use caps for a fun photo booth.
• String Lights: Hang twinkling lights around the venue to add warmth and a magical ambiance.

By carefully choosing these decorations, you can create a memorable space that celebrates this significant achievement and sets the mood for a fun party.

Choosing Fun Food for Your Party

Next, think about the best graduation party food to serve. In addition to fun decorations and a great atmosphere, the food selection plays a vital role in encouraging socializing and enjoyment among your guests. For instance, finger foods encourage people to walk around and socialize. Here are some essential factors to consider when figuring out your menu:

1. Set a Budget

As a proud parent, it’s tempting to go all out. However, setting a realistic budget prevents overspending and potential financial strain. It’s easy to lose our minds a little when it comes to our kids. However, you don’t have to lose everything in your wallet too. On average, a graduation party for around 60 guests costs approximately $1,130, translating to about $19 per person. By sticking to a budget, you not only save money, but you also reduce waste and stress.

2. Choose Refreshing Drinks

Guests consume about two drinks per hour on average. To avoid running short, consider purchasing additional beverages, especially if the day is hot. Opting for bottled water and canned soft drinks eliminates the need for cups and helps simplify cleanup. However, if you’re trying to cut costs and be gentle on the environment, consider 2-liters or larger and filtered water in jugs or straight from your fridge.

3. Opt for Easy Food Options

While it’s essential to celebrate your child’s achievements, you also want to enjoy the party yourself. Choosing food items that require minimal preparation will allow you to mingle with your guests without feeling overwhelmed. Food bars, for instance, provide a fun and interactive way for guests to customize their meals. A charcuterie board featuring cold cuts, cheese, crackers, fruits, pickles, and nuts is another appealing choice.

Here are several easy yet delicious graduation party food ideas:

• Vegetable platter
• Fun Fruit salad
• Slaw
• Pasta salad
• Chips and dip
• Bean salad
• Baked beans
• Pork or chicken sliders
• Subs
• Hamburgers and hot dogs
• Chicken nuggets, tenders or wings

4. Let There Be Cake!

The cake serves as the centerpiece of the graduation celebration and is a must-have. You can purchase a reasonably priced cake from your local supermarket or warehouse club. Alternatively, cupcakes are a delightful option, offering both simplicity and ease of serving. Regardless of your choice, guests will surely delight in the sweet addition to the celebration. Or, read below for some of our dessert ideas!

Catering for Convenience

If hosting a party at home seems daunting, consider catering or pizza as a viable option to lighten your workload. Preparing food can be time-consuming and exhausting, and serving pizza or pre-prepared food allows you to focus on your guests. Pizza is a classic choice for parties for several reasons:

• It’s a crowd-pleaser.
• It’s reasonably priced and budget-friendly.
• Guests can select their preferred toppings, catering to various tastes.
• Clean-up is simple.
• Pizzas are easily transportable.

One of the top spots to order pizza is your local Mario’s Pizza. Since 1981, Mario’s has been serving delicious NY-style pizza, ideal for any gathering. Depending on your guest count and topping preferences, consider the following guide to help determine how much pizza you need:

• 1-2 guests, order a 10-inch pie
• 3-4 guests, opt for a 15-inch pie
• 5-6 guests, select a 17-inch pie
• 6-8 guests, go for a 19-inch pie
• 8-10 guests, choose a 24-inch pie

Additionally, if you wish to offer appetizers, main courses, or desserts, Mario’s extensive menu can cater to your needs. Their party trays include:

• Garlic knots
• Garden salad
• Greek salad
• Spaghetti with marinara sauce/meatballs
• Lasagna
• Baked ziti
• Chicken parmigiana
• Ravioli
• Eggplant parmigiana
• Cannoli

Speaking of that cake…we also have a delightful limoncello mascarpone cake.

Keep in mind, while we do offer party trays, we currently do not deliver and set up. Plus, be sure to call ahead so that we can prepare all of your food and have it ready when you are!

Frequently Asked Questions About Hosting a Graduation Party

As you plan your celebration, you might have more questions. Here are answers to a few common inquiries about graduation food party ideas that can help you create an unforgettable event.

What Entertainment Ideas Can Make the Party More Fun?

Creating a memorable experience for both your graduate and the guests is crucial. Incorporating engaging elements can set a lively mood and encourage interaction among attendees. Consider choosing a theme related to your graduate’s major or college choice to visually connect the guests to the guest of honor. Doing so will also help you come up with décor and possible related games.

Likewise, set the mood with background music. Craft a playlist featuring your graduate’s favorite songs or opt for popular graduation-themed tracks. For added entertainment, consider setting up a photo booth with fun props, as kids and adults love capturing moments, and it adds an interactive aspect to your celebration.

Where is the Best Venue for Hosting a Graduation Party?

Many find that a backyard is an ideal location for hosting a graduation party. Nevertheless, having a contingency plan for inclement weather is essential. Renting a tent can safeguard your guests from unexpected rain and provide shade on sunny days.

Another option to consider is renting a pavilion at your local park. This setup is often affordable and offers a convenient space. Before making a reservation, inspect the pavilion’s facilities and nearby parking options to ensure they meet your needs. It’s wise to book the venue at least three to four months in advance to secure your preferred location.

How Do I Order Party Trays or Pizza from Mario’s Pizza?

When hosting a graduation party, birthday celebration, or any event, Mario’s Pizza is here to assist. Simply call your nearest Mario’s Pizza location or visit our website to place your order. We have 9 convenient locations throughout the triad:

• 1469 River Ridge Dr., Clemmons
• 266 Harvey St., Winston-Salem
• 2205 Cloverdale Ave., Northwest Winston-Salem
• 1066 Hanes Mall Blvd., Winston-Salem
• 3354 W. Friendly Ave., Suite 142 Greensboro
• 4215 W Wendover Ave., Greensboro
• 1575 New Garden Rd., Greensboro
• 5824 Samet Dr., High Point
• 2645 N Main St., High Point

Whether you’re looking for graduation party food ideas or just some great food for a casual gathering with friends, Mario’s Pizza has you covered!

Moreover, if you’re looking for some fun birthday party ideas or themed party tips we have those too!

Here at Mario’s Pizza, we service a wide variety of delicious Italian food. However, the Mario’s pizza and wings deals are always among our most popular pairings. If you’re looking for authentic Brooklyn-style pizza and juicy wings dripping with flavorful sauces, place your order today. They’re perfect for almost any situation, including these 10 scenarios:

Pizza and Wings for Game Day

Nothing goes better with watching the game than pizza and wings. No matter what kind of sports you’re watching, it just makes sense to place a to-go or delivery order with Mario’s. That way, you won’t miss a second of the game. Make sure to order early during the biggest events of the season! Ordering online is easy through our website or app.

Date Night Pizza and Wings

While you might not immediately think about wings and pizza for a date night, this is actually an amazing choice. Instead of dressing up for a fancy dinner with an astronomical bill, order pizza and wings. Fire up Netflix and cuddle on the couch while you enjoy some delicious food. And yes, we also have other Italian entree options for your date night dinner in case your partner would rather have something different. (Don’t forget the dessert!)

A Crowd-Pleasing Combo for a Picnic

Are you heading to a picnic or potluck and forgot to make a dish to take? Just place an order for pizza and wings at Mario’s. We’ve got you covered. Pizza and wings are also a great back up plan if you’re the host and the weather doesn’t cooperate. Instead of grilling burgers in the rain, have an indoor picnic with our food.

The Perfect Sleepover Snack

Think about your fondest memories as a child going to sleepovers. What food was being served? Probably pizza! Pizza and wings make it easy to host a group of giggling kids who want to stay up eating treats late into the night. No need to raid your kitchen when they can just grab a leftover slice.

Pizza, Wings, and More for Birthday Parties

Hosting a birthday party can be stressful. Between the cake, favors, decorations, and more, food is often an afterthought. Instead of spending your time in the kitchen, enjoy the party and leave the cooking to us. In addition to pizza and wings, we also have party trays available.

Cater Your Work Party with Mario’s Pizza and Wings

Speaking of party trays, our food is perfect for any kind of work party, meeting, or other function. Order a few pizzas and some wings with a variety of sauces. Then, consider some of our other crowd-pleasing party trays including eggplant or chicken parmigiana, baked ravioli, baked ziti, lasagna, spaghetti (with or without meatballs), garden or Greek salad, garlic knots, and cannoli.

Pizza and Wings are Perfect for Pre-Wedding Bachelor Parties

Are you planning a bachelor party? Our wings and pizza make the perfect snack as you get ready for a night out. They’re also perfect if you’re staying in instead for a poker night or any other kind of bachelor party.

Feed the Family on a Budget with Our Pizza/Wing Deal

One of the best things about Mario’s pizza and wings is that you don’t really need a reason to order it. If you’ve had a long day and the thought of cooking dinner makes you want to cry, just place an order with Mario’s instead. We have pizza toppings to please even the pickiest eaters. You can also enjoy pizza and wings with your partner and older children and order a kid’s meal for your little ones. We have several low-cost meal combos for kids.

Give the Gift of Pizza and Wings to Someone Who Needs It

Mario’s pizza and wings is the perfect dinner to tell someone that you’re thinking of them or to say thank you. Here are just a few situations where you might want to consider offering someone a meal from Mario’s:

• Celebrating a new baby and give the sleep-deprived parents a night off from cooking
• Sharing condolences when there is a death in the family
• Welcoming a new family to town when they move into your neighborhood
• Thanking friends who help you during a move
• Helping friends or family experiencing a hard patch
• Giving an ill neighbor an easy meal they can make without any effort

Celebrate Any Occasion with Delicious Food from Mario’s

Here at Mario’s, we want to help you celebrate anything. In addition to the nine situations above when you might order pizza or order wings (or both), we’d love to be your go-to for any event or party where you need a tasty meal. This includes retirement parties, baby and wedding showers, reunions, anniversary parties, bar/bat mitzvahs, holiday parties, and more. You can even host an Italian-themed party with Mario’s if you want to go all-out!

FAQs About Ordering Pizza and Wings from Mario’s

Our helpful staff would love to answer any questions you have about ordering food for your next event. Here are a few common questions we get, along with answers:

What wing sauces do you have?

When you order wings at Mario’s, you have your choice of sauces. We currently offer mild, buffalo, honey barbecue, teriyaki, and sweet chili sauces. Check our menu for a list of current available wing sauces.

Do you have any pizza and wing deals?

Our daily specials are subject to change, but the current pizza and wing deal is for a 19″ one-topping pizza plus 10 boneless wings, which is available on Sundays. We also offer different pizza deals on other days, such as our Saturday special for two 17″ one-topping pizzas and our Monday special for a 15″ one-Topping pizza & two drinks.

How many pizzas do I need to feed my family or party?

We usually tell people to estimate 2-3 slices per adult and 1-2 slices per child, depending on the size of the pizza you order. All Mario’s pizzas come with 8 slices, with the exception of our enormous 24-inch pizza, which comes with 12 slices. However, if you want more, smaller slices for a party or potluck, just let us know when you order.

Do you have more questions about the Mario’s Pizza menu or want to place an order? Use the dropdown above to find the number for your closest Mario’s location. We have multiple convenient restaurants in Winston-Salem, Clemmons, High Point and Greensboro. We hope to see you soon!

Throwing a party can be exciting yet stressful. You want everyone to have a great time and this includes enjoying the food. Yet, if traditional catering Greensboro NC options are way out of your budget, we have some solutions. Instead of pricey full-blown catering, order a few party trays from Mario’s Pizza.

Tips For A Successful Event

Celebrating life’s milestones with friends and family creates unforgettable memories. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or graduation, preparation is key to a successful gathering.

1. Confirm Your Guest List

Your party planning begins with your guest list. As you decide whom to invite, keep in mind that about 20% won’t be able to attend. Moreover, some may forget to respond and you may need to check whether they plan to attend.

2. Work Out Quantities

Once you know how many people will be attending, you can figure out how much party food you’ll need. Food is an important part of your event that helps makes it memorable. While you don’t want anyone to go away hungry, you also don’t want too many leftovers.

According to Food Network, adults eat 1 pound of food while children consume about half this amount. Of course, the more options you offer, the less you need for each dish. Furthermore, guests typically eat more at night than during the day.

3. Pick Party Food Options Most People Like

Since food is an important part of your event, you want to choose your menu carefully. Although you may be stressing over what you’ll serve, most likely your guests want simple, hearty fare. Stick with crowd favorites done well and your party will be a hit.

4. Use Throwaway Plates, Cups, And Utensils

Why not make things easy on yourself? Using throwaway plates, cups, and utensils makes cleaning easier while reducing the dirty dishes you’ll need to clean.

5. Relax And Have Fun

Unfortunately, the host/hostess can get too caught up in the details. However, many times guests don’t notice the particulars because they’re having a good time. When throwing a party, try to relax and have fun.

Searching for Possible Catering Greensboro NC Options

While hosting a gathering can be fun, preparing and cooking enough food for your guests can be time-consuming and draining. However, hiring a catering service can cost you up to $150 per person! Yet, this doesn’t mean you have to cook. We have huge party trays and desserts. And, of course, we have gigantic pizzas as well. Pizza is a great option for many reasons:

• It’s affordable
• Everyone loves pizza
• Different toppings offer options
• You can eat it sitting or standing
• There’s no need for utensils

Moreover, Mario’s Pizza wants to help you make your next gathering a success! We’re an affordable catering Greensboro NC possibility. For example, we offer a giant 24” party-size pie as well as 10″, 15″, 17″, 19″ pizzas. Plus, pair your pizza with wings or some of our other favorites!

Likewise, our party trays feature your favorite Italian entrees:

• Eggplant parmigiana
• Chicken parmigiana
• Ravioli
• Baked ziti
• Lasagna
• Spaghetti/spaghetti with meatballs

To complete your meal, we also have these party trays:

• Garden salad
• Greek salad
• Garlic knots
• Cannoli

Finally, we can customize your order with advance notice. For more information, simply call the closest Mario’s Pizza.

FAQS About Mario’s Pizza

Of course, we think we’re the best option when searching for party food for your event. Below, we’ve answered a few commonly asked questions about our food and service. If you have any others about catering Greensboro NC possibilities, please call your nearest restaurant.

Where Can I Find Mario’s Pizza?

You’ll find restaurants throughout the Triad Piedmont area at the following locations:

• 4215 Wendover Avenue, Greensboro
• 1575 New Garden Road, Greensboro
• 3354 West Friendly Ave. Suite 142 Greensboro (Friendly Center)
• 2645 North Main Street, High Point
• 5824 Samet Drive, High Point
• 2205 Cloverdale Avenue, Winston Salem
• 1066 Hanes Mall Boulevard, Winston Salem
• 266 Harvey Street, Winston Salem
• 1469 River Ridge Drive, Clemmons

These locations make our restaurants easily accessible to many surrounding communities:

• Kernersville
• Lewisville
• Walkertown
• Lexington
• Thomasville
• Rural Hall
• Advance
• Mocksville
• King
• Summerfield

What Are The Most Popular Pizza Toppings?

One poll of 6,000 adults placed meat toppings at the top of the list. Consumers’ preferences with percentages were as follows:

• Pepperoni 64%
• Sausage 56%
• Mushrooms 54%
• Extra cheese 52%
• Onions 48%

If you prefer some other topping, don’t worry! Mario’s pizza offers plenty to choose from:

• Pepperoni
• Sausage
• Sliced sausage
• Beef
• Ham
• Chorizo
• Mushrooms
• Onions
• Banana peppers
• Bell peppers
• Roasted peppers
• Black olives
• Fresh garlic
• Spinach
• Pineapple
• Salami
• Fresh tomatoes
• Jalapenos
• Green olives
• Beef roni
• Eggplant
• Meatball
• Bacon
• Canadian bacon

Plus, we offer some additional premium toppings at an additional charge:

• Grilled chicken
• Crispy chicken
• Steak
• Feta cheese
• Artichoke hearts
• Broccoli
• Anchovies
• Kalamata olives
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Roasted red peppers

Does Mario’s Pizza Have Great Tasting Menu Items?

Of course, we’re a little opinionated. However, many of our customers return again and again for our food. Below are a few comments by our patrons:

Food has always been delicious and always on time each time I have ordered here. The pizza is amazing and the other options on the menu are very tasty as well! I definitely recommend trying Mario’s Pizza. – Joshua B. L., West Jefferson, NC

Excellent food. Always know you are going to get good, friendly customer service and food that never disappoints. Not only this location, but all of the others around town live up and have the same great level of quality and service one can ask for. – Jarrett H., Winston-Salem, NC

When searching for catering Greensboro NC possibilities, consider Mario’s Pizza. We’ll help make your celebration an event to remember.