Graduation Party Venues for Rent in Houston

It takes a bit of effort to plan and throw a graduation party at home. So why not make your life a little easier and book a venue that has experience in organizing and catering to all manner of events? No matter if you’re planning a modest dinner party for close friends and relatives or something bigger and more elaborate, you’ll surely find a venue that’s just perfect for what you have in mind among Tagvenue’s supply. So, scroll away! And if you need more help and inspiration, read our guide with handy tips on how to book an awesome venue and throw a killer graduation party.

How to book a graduation party venue

Finding the ideal space for an occasion as important as a graduation party is no mean feat. If you’ve already done some googling, you know that Houston offers a whole lot of choice when it comes to party venues. So, how do you pick the one? Here’s our checklist of things to consider before you make up your mind.

Start with planning your budget

First things first, you need to have a budget. Even if you don’t have a super thick wallet, no worries. It’s relatively easy to find cheap venues for graduation parties in Houston, with prices that reach around $20 per person. There are also ways to cut back on things such as catering, decorations and entertainment. But before we get into the details, decide how much you’re ready to spend. Then, you can easily narrow your venue search by setting your price range on Tagvenue.

Create a guest list

Once the budget’s settled, you’ll have a rough idea of how many people you can invite. It can be an intimate gathering for just the closest family or a lavish celebration with extended relatives, friends or even the whole graduating class. It’s perfectly fine to invite a few teachers, coaches and faculty members – if the graduating student wishes to do so. Build your guest list and estimate the expected number of guests before you start hunting for that dream venue. This will help you determine how much space you actually need and book a location with the perfect capacity.

Quite a popular option is to have a joint graduation party, shared with other grads and their families. It’s an especially good idea if the graduating students have the same friend circle and their guest lists will overlap to a large degree. It’s also a great way to save some money. Just make sure you choose a venue with enough space to fit everyone comfortably!

Mark the calendar

When you begin searching for venues, you should already have a date in mind. Remember that May and June are when graduation parties are in full swing, and it’s also the wedding season, which means the best venues will be booked well in advance. That’s why you have to act fast!  You can also consider hosting your graduation party later on, in July or August. For high school graduates, it can be combined with a going away party. You can also combine the graduation party with a holiday if that makes it easier for out-of-town guests.

Start planning early on and set the date at least one month in advance. Remember that plenty of students are graduating at the same time and will be hosting their parties too. Also, check in with your guests to make sure they don’t have other commitments and choose the most suitable date together.

Find a suitable location

Next, think about where exactly you want to hold the party. It could be a nice restaurant in your neighborhood, a location close to the high school or university, or just a fun area of the city that will set the tone for the event. Don’t forget to consider key aspects of a convenient location, such as easy access, good transport links and ample parking.

When it comes to the choice of a specific venue, Houston boasts an abundance of places that work great for graduation parties. From cheap and small venues to large and elegant spaces, there’s something to fit all styles and budgets. Restaurants are always a safe bet – depending on the size of your party, you can book a private dining room or opt for a full buyout. The same goes for bars. And if you want to host an outdoor graduation party, there are plenty of patios, terraces and beer gardens to choose from.

Choose the menu

Now, let's get to the core of every good party – the food and beverages! Decide whether you want to rent a venue that offers in-house catering, e.g. a restaurant. If that’s the case, you can choose the location based on the type of cuisine. If you’d rather use external catering or bring your own food, make sure you get a green light from the venue manager. Also, will you be serving a full dinner or just appetizers? Pinterest has tons of ideas for graduation-themed finger foods, such as graduation cap or diploma-shaped candy, which will look awesome on a display table.

Plan some entertainment

Last but not least, think about how you’re going to entertain your guests. You can look up some graduation-themed games and activities to try out together. Or, if those make you cringe, then how about some music? If you want to go all out, book a DJ or a live band. And if you don’t have a huge budget, simply put together a playlist that you can groove to. You can also prepare a slideshow showcasing your favorite memories of the school/college years or have a photo booth (professional or DIY) to capture a few precious moments of your special day.

Graduation Party Venues in Houston FAQ

How much does it cost to rent a graduation party venue in Houston?

When you’re planning to rent a graduation party venue in Houston, expect to pay from around $20 to $92 per person. Per person packages are an attractive option, as they typically cover both space rental and catering. Many venues in Houston have a food and beverage minimum, sometimes in addition to a rental fee. F&B minimum typically ranges from $400 to $7500. (All data from Tagvenue.)

Which areas of Houston offer the best venues for a graduation party?

You’ll definitely find the biggest concentration of amazing venues for graduation parties in the city’s Inner Loop. Downtown, Midtown and Montrose are all popular party destinations with a broad choice of spaces for rent – from trendy restaurants to extravagant bars and clubs. A little bit to the north, The Heights is also filled with nightlife spots that come to life when the sun goes down. If you want to host your graduation party outside the Loop, you’ll find plenty of options in the lively Uptown area.

What are the best graduation party venues in Houston?

Don’t know what to choose? Have a look at some of our favorites:

• Fuego's – A multipurpose entertainment venue based in Rice Military that combines contemporary charm with an industrial feel. Apart from unique event spaces, the bar has a scratch food menu that will fuel you with energy for a night of partying!
• Axis & Alibi – A swanky restaurant with a dynamic vibe and American food to satisfy every craving. The team at Axis & Alibi specialize in throwing parties, so you’ll be in good hands! And, you can count on top-40 and Hip-Hop music to get your guests moving! Located in Rice Military.
• Twisted Grilled Cheese – Looking for a venue that offers 100% vegan catering? You’ve just found it! Surprise your guests with a delicious plant-based menu and have a memorable celebration in Twisted Grilled Cheese's bright surroundings. Located in Rice Military.

Can I have an outdoor graduation party in Houston?

Yes! Houston offers plenty of options if you want to celebrate in the fresh air! Check out some of our top picks for an outdoor graduation party:

• Patio at The King's Head Pub – Located on Eldridge Parkway, The King's Head Pub blends known and loved classics with tastes from around the world, and its patio is perfect for alfresco celebrations.
• Courtyard at Heights House Hotel – If you’re planning a graduation party for up to 60 people, this will be the perfect fit! Grab a few beers, mingle with your guests and enjoy the fresh air. Located on West Cavalcade Street in Brooke Smith.
• The Deck at Platypus Brewing – Located on Washington Avenue, Platypus Brewing offers a mix of local and Australian fare. The Deck features covered and uncovered areas with plenty of seating for your guests.