Del Mar, California, is excited as the Class of 2025 gets ready to toss their caps and step into a bright new chapter. Whether you’re graduating from high school or college or celebrating a loved one’s achievement, this year’s graduation season promises unforgettable moments, heartfelt gatherings, and a true sense of community.
Graduation Ceremonies: Mark Your Calendars
Del Mar College is hosting its Spring 2025 Commencement Ceremony on Friday, May 16, 2025. Graduates and their families can look forward to a formal ceremony, complete with caps, gowns, and the proud walk across the stage. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be streamed live, making it easy for friends and family near and far to join in the celebration.
For high school graduates, Rancho del Mar High School will hold its Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at 10 am. The ceremony will take place at the school itself, and there are no tickets required; seating and parking are first come, first served. Graduates are encouraged to dress smartly under their gowns, and families are reminded to help keep the ceremony meaningful for every graduate.
Party Time: Celebrate Del Mar Style
After the ceremony, it’s time to party. Del Mar offers the perfect backdrop for graduation celebrations, from sun-soaked beaches to cozy backyard gatherings.
Backyard Bash: Transform your backyard into a festive haven with tassel garlands, balloon arches, and a popcorn bar. Set up a photo station with props and banners to capture the day’s best smiles. For food, picnic sandwich pinwheels and deviled eggs are easy crowd-pleasers. Don’t forget a donut wall or cupcake toppers shaped like graduation caps for a sweet touch.
Beach Picnic: Del Mar’s stunning coastline is ideal for a graduation picnic. Pack up a cooler with snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. Bring along a few beach games-think cornhole or paddleball-and let the ocean breeze set the mood. Cozy Earth’s oversized beach towels make a great gift and are perfect for lounging on the sand.
Local Eats: Treat your grad to a meal at one of Del Mar’s favorite spots. Jake’s Del Mar offers ocean views and fresh seafood, while Board & Brew is known for its legendary sandwiches, ideal for a casual lunch with friends. For dessert, swing by Del Mar Rendezvous for their famous chocolate cake or order a custom cake from VG Donut & Bakery in nearby Cardiff.
Graduation Party Ideas That Shine
Personalized Decor: Create a photo banner with snapshots from kindergarten to senior year. Hang pom-pom tassel garlands in school colors, and add a sprinkle of graduation cap centerpieces to your table. For a fun twist, set up a “Words of Wisdom” jar where guests can leave advice for the grad.
Games and Activities: Keep guests entertained with backyard classics like Jenga or a strategic card game like Coup. Set up a corner for guests to write messages or share favorite memories. For younger grads, a Snoopy or nautical theme adds playful charm.
DIY Touches: Make your own confetti poppers or graduation cap straws for drinks. If you’re crafty, try a homemade money wreath as both a gift and party décor.
Gift Ideas for Every Grad
Tech and Gadgets: The Class of 2025 is ready for the future, so gifts like Apple’s iPad, a portable monitor, or noise-canceling headphones are sure to be a hit. For grads heading off to college, a laundry backpack or smart plug makes dorm life easier.
Personal Touches: Personalized picture frames, engraved bracelets, or a custom tumbler will remind your grad of home. A vibrant bouquet-like Lovepop’s laser-cut flowers adds color to their new space.
For the Adventurer: A sturdy travel duffle or Cotopaxi’s Allpa travel pack is perfect for weekend trips. For beach lovers, an insulated cooler keeps drinks cold for hours.
For the Foodie: A smart oven or espresso machine brings a taste of home to any new apartment. Or, gift a set of airtight containers to keep snacks fresh during all-night study sessions.
Fun and Games: Board games, a streaming box, or a portable projector turn any dorm room into a social hub.
Local Del Mar Spots for Memory-Making
Powerhouse Park is a favorite for family photos and sunset picnics. Seagrove Park offers sweeping ocean views, perfect for group shots in cap and gown. After the ceremony, stroll along Del Mar Plaza for shopping, dining, and a celebratory scoop from GelatoLove.
Keep the Spirit Alive
Graduation in Del Mar is about more than diplomas; it’s about community, laughter, and looking forward together. Whether you’re planning a big bash or a quiet dinner, Del Mar’s welcoming spirit makes every celebration special. So gather your friends, share your favorite stories, and let the Class of 2025 know just how proud you are.
Sources: wired.com, goodhousekeeping.com, delmar.cuhsd.org
Header Image Source: MD Duran on Unsplash
