It’s time to relive the good old days at your upcoming high school reunion! But before you can start reminiscing with your classmates, there’s some important planning to be done. From choosing a reunion venue to finding the best party package, here’s your ultimate high school reunion planning checklist.
Step 1: Decide on a Theme
The first step in planning a successful high school reunion is choosing a theme. This will set the tone for the event and help guide all other decisions, from reunion venue to decor to dress code.
There are two ways you can go here: choose a modern theme that reflects where everyone is in their lives now or stick to a nostalgic theme that takes you back to your high school days. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Decades theme (e.g. 80s, 90s)
- Prom theme
- School spirit theme
- Career-based theme (e.g. “Where are they now?”)
- Beach/Pool party theme
- Black and white theme
Step 2: Pick a Reunion Venue
Once you have a theme in mind, it’s time to decide on a reunion venue. Consider your budget and the number of attendees when making this decision.
You’ll also want to think about the atmosphere you want to create—do you want a formal sit-down dinner, a casual cocktail party, or a fun and entertainment-filled night? You could choose an elegant event space and focus on a fancy meal, or you could reserve a large family fun center like Stars and Strikes that’s complete with bowling, arcade games, and laser tag.
Step 3: Create a Guest List & Invitations
The next step is to create a guest list. Depending on how long it’s been since you graduated, this might take some research and sleuthing. Start by reaching out to your old friends and classmates via social media or email. You can also ask for help from a committee of volunteers if you have one.
The modern thing to do is to create a Facebook event page to act as an invitation. Not only is it easier to invite people, but it also allows attendees to share the event with others from your graduating class to get a full turnout. State all the details, including:
- The theme
- A casual or formal dress code
- Whether plus-ones are allowed
- A deadline for RSVPs
- Any costs associated with the event (e.g. tickets, food, and drinks)
Step 4: Consider Fun & Unique Activities
While catching up with old friends will be the main event, it’s always a good idea to plan some fun and unique activities at your reunion venue to keep things interesting. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Photo booth with props
- Escape room challenge
- Karaoke competition
- Trivia game about high school memories
- Group photo with a drone or photographer
- “Then and Now” slideshow featuring photos of classmates from high school and now
If designing and setting up different activities sounds too overwhelming, consider a streamlined event space like a bowling alley or casino that offers various entertainment options.
Step 5: Create a Nostalgic Atmosphere
One of the best parts of a high school reunion is reminiscing about old memories. To create a nostalgic atmosphere, decorate with items that represent your high school experience such as:
- School colors and memorabilia
- Photos from yearbooks or past events
- Music from your graduation year or popular songs from your high school days
- Signature drinks named after high school inside jokes or memories
Step 6: Plan for Food & Drinks
Food and beverages are an important aspect of any event, and your high school reunion is no exception. Consider the time of day and length of the event when deciding on a menu. A sit-down dinner with a set menu may be more appropriate for a formal event, while an event with a restaurant on site could provide the food for a casual event.
Plan a Smashing Success at Reunion Venue Stars & Strikes!
With this ultimate high school reunion planning checklist, you’re well on your way to throwing a memorable and successful event. And if you’re looking for the perfect reunion venue, look no further than Stars & Strikes!
We offer all-inclusive packages that include a personal party planner, large event spaces, food, drinks, and entertainment all under the same roof to make planning your reunion a breeze. Plus, we always have special deals and discounts rotating throughout the year, so be sure to check our website or give us a call for more information.
Contact us today to start planning your ultimate high school reunion!

