The excitement is building across Folsom; the Class of 2025 is ready to walk the stage, toss their caps, and celebrate years of hard work. Whether you’re a proud parent, a beaming graduate, or a friend eager to join the festivities, Folsom is buzzing with ways to honor this milestone. From official ceremonies at local schools to unforgettable parties and thoughtful gifts, this city knows how to celebrate its graduates in style.
Mark Your Calendars: Folsom’s Graduation Ceremonies
Folsom High School is set to make memories on Thursday, May 29, 2025. The ceremony will take place at Prairie City Stadium, with the action starting at 7:00 pm. Each graduate can bring six guests; four tickets for the home side and two for the away side. For those who can’t make it in person, the event will be live-streamed, so nobody misses out on the big moment. Don’t forget the mandatory rehearsals on May 28 and May 29 to ensure everything runs smoothly.
For those continuing their academic journey at Folsom Lake College, graduation is happening a week earlier on Thursday, May 22, 2025. The Harris Center for the Arts will host two ceremonies: one at 3:00 pm for Public Service, Health, Education, and STEM graduates, and another at 6:30 pm for Business, Management, Liberal Arts, and Social Sciences majors. Each graduate receives three guest tickets, with the possibility of requesting more if space allows. The ceremonies will also be live-streamed for friends and family cheering from afar.
Both schools encourage students to show their spirit; decorate your caps, wear your cords and stoles, and don’t forget to pick up your regalia in advance. For those needing a little help, the Falcon Cares’ Gowns for Grads program at Folsom Lake College offers free caps and gowns for students in need.
Party Like a Graduate: Celebration Ideas in Folsom
After the diplomas are handed out, it’s time to party! Folsom’s parks, backyards, and local venues are perfect for gathering friends and family. Here are some ideas to make your celebration stand out:
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Backyard Bash: String up tassel garlands, set up a balloon arch, and lay out a picnic spread with sandwich pinwheels and deviled eggs. A popcorn bar with sweet and savory toppings is always a hit.
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Photo Fun: Create a photo station with props and a graduation banner. Snap group shots with the Folsom Lake backdrop or at the Harris Center’s official photo area.
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Games Galore: Bring out lawn games like cornhole or giant Jenga. Friendly competition keeps the energy high and everyone laughing.
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DIY Decor: Get crafty with pom-pom tassel garlands or sprinkle-themed grad caps. Stick to school colors for an extra personal touch.
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Sweet Treats: Graduation cap cupcakes, donut walls, and peanut butter cup “diplomas” add a playful twist to dessert tables.
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Advice Jar: Set up a spot for guests to leave notes of wisdom or well wishes for the graduate to read later.
Looking for a unique venue? Celebrate at Folsom City Lions Park for a classic picnic vibe, or book a table at local favorites like Sutter Street Steakhouse or Karen’s Bakery Café for a more intimate meal.
Gift Guide: Celebrate With Something Special
Choosing the right gift shows your graduate how proud you are. Here are some top picks that blend practicality and fun:
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Tech Essentials: A new laptop or tablet, like Apple’s MacBook Air or iPad, helps grads stay connected and productive.
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Smart Gadgets: Consider a smartwatch for health tracking, a portable projector for movie nights, or a smart plug to upgrade their new dorm or apartment.
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Travel Gear: Cotopaxi’s Allpa Travel Pack is perfect for adventures ahead, whether it’s a summer trip or the daily college commute.
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Personal Touches: Personalized tumblers, photo banners, or a custom yearbook ad make for keepsakes that last.
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Games and Relaxation: Card games like Coup or a streaming device for downtime between classes.
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Home Helpers: A robot vacuum, stackable containers for snacks, or a cozy cooler for weekend outings.
For the grad who loves a little luxury, noise-canceling earbuds or a sleek desk lamp can turn any study space into a sanctuary. For those on the go, a portable cooler or travel pack is both thoughtful and practical.
Sober Grad Night: Safe and Fun
Folsom High School’s Sober Grad Night kicks off right after graduation on May 29. It’s a safe, substance-free party with games, food, and prizes, ensuring everyone celebrates responsibly. Tickets are required, so check in advance to secure your spot.
Capture the Moment: Photos and Memories
Don’t let the day slip by without capturing the joy. Professional photographers will be on hand at Folsom Lake College’s ceremonies, and there’s an official backdrop for family snapshots. At home, set up a DIY photo booth with props and banners, or create a photo banner chronicling the graduate’s journey from kindergarten to cap and gown.
Folsom’s Class of 2025: Ready for the World
Graduation in Folsom is more than a ceremony; it’s a citywide celebration of dreams realized and new adventures ahead. Whether you’re walking across the stage at the Harris Center, gathering with friends at Lions Park, or hosting a backyard bash, Folsom is the perfect place to make graduation memories that last a lifetime.
Sources: wired.com, goodhousekeeping.com, fhs.fcusd.org, flc.losrios.edu
Header Image Source: Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash
